Fuel tanker drivers to resume talks

Talks are set to resume in the latest bid to avoid a strike by fuel tanker drivers.

The union representing the drivers, Unite, has to decide on Tuesday whether to announce if any walkouts are going to take place following discussions at conciliation service Acas.

The threat of industrial action was raised again last week after drivers' representatives refused to accept an agreement aimed at resolving the dispute over pensions and working conditions.

Union leaders are legally required to give seven days notice of any industrial action, allowing plenty of time for motorists to ensure their breakdown cover is up to date to protect against the possibility of running out of fuel.

The latest talks involve Hoyer, one of the UK's largest fuel distribution firms with customers including Esso and Shell garages.

Union members at the company are due to take part in a fresh vote on industrial action because ballot papers were not given to all 530 members during the original voting.

Acas chief conciliator Peter Harwood said he was encouraged to see that all parties were still "positively engaged in the process".

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