Held to ransom

uNioNs’ clamouring for an increase in the pay of their members is largely a politically motivated action.

i’ve lived through significant strikes that have had few long-term benefits for those involved. i would ask union leaders, who seem well remunerated, to consider carefully what repercussions strikes might have on their members and the industries in which they work.

They should take heed of the effect the miners’ strike in the 1980s had on the viability of the coal industry.

As a pensioner living on £335 a week, out of which i pay income tax, i envy the power of those who can hold their employers to ransom.

J. CROWDER, Nottingham.