North Sea strikes could severely disrupt UK fuel supplies, union warns
More than 160 offshore workers plan a 24-hour strike at five Apache platforms from 6am on Wednesday, amid a wider series of disputes between North Sea workers and oil companies. Unite warns that halted production could disrupt UK fuel supplies because the platforms are linked to the Forties Pipeline System, which carries about 30% of UK oil production.
A separate 48-hour strike by Wood Group workers at five Harbour Energy platforms was already planned to begin on Tuesday, and another is scheduled for 3 November. Apache says it will use experienced contractors and does not expect disruption to other companies using the pipeline; it has offered a 4% pay rise. The strikes come as companies cut investment and jobs, with Apache planning to leave the North Sea by 2029 and blaming the 78% tax rate on oil profits.
- More than 160 workers plan to strike at five Apache platforms.
- Unite says the action could affect the Forties pipeline and UK fuel supplies.
- Apache expects contractors to maintain production and has offered a 4% rise.