Andy Cook, Chief Executive of Industrial Relations Advisory Firm, Marshall-James Global Solutions, comments on the BA High Court Ruling

Online, May 17, 2010 (Newswire.com) - London, 17th May 2010, Following the High Court's decision to grant British Airways an injunction to halt the Cabin Crew strike tomorrow; it is confirmed that the strike will now not go ahead. Andy Cook, Chief Executive of Industrial Relations advisors Marshall-James says, "UNITE have once again suffered a defeat at the High Court for not following the correct balloting procedures. This is embarrassing for them and is sure to anger union members who look to their union to represent their best interests. This injunction only means a postponement of any action, but it does mean that momentum will inevitably be lost. These mistakes must be costly for Unite and its members".

I am sure we will see Unite announce more action as everyone involved in this strike - BA Management, Unite and the Cabin Crew are showing no signs of compromise. We are seeing brinkmanship at its most extreme."

"It seems utterly amazing that a prestigious British company that touches so many people across the world has ended up in this position." Any negotiation where either or both sides are backed into a corner is a disaster as it means someone will have to lose face in order to make a break through.

"The company realise that they are now addressing a history of past management's reluctance to tackle the Union and its power. If they give in now, they will be faced with this same situation again in a few years time."

"Both sides need to find a way to build trust so the future of the airline is secured. The travelling public will not endure much more disruption to travel plans."

Ends

Andy Cook - Biography
Andy Cook has over 10 years experience in senior human resources positions in heavily unionised work places, including the airline and transport industries. He founded and runs Marshall-James, a specialist Employee Relations Advisory firm that works with many large employers from both the public and private sectors. His career has included roles as HR Director at the British Library, Head of Human Resources and Employee Relations with Transport for London and as HR Director, UK and Ireland, with Gate Gourmet. Andy and his team have grown Marshall-James into one of the foremost experts in Industrial and Employee Relations. He continues to advise clients personally as well as speaking at conferences and writing regular articles for both the HR community and the wider business audience and is often called upon as an expert commentator on industrial disputes and HR issues in the press and media.

Notes to Editors
Marshall-James is a specialist Employee Relations Advisory firm based in the UK that specialises in all aspects working with Employers who face issues and challenges with Trade Union Relations and Collective Employee Issues. Marshall-James works with household name employers both inside and outside the UK.

IF you would like to speak with Andy Cook please call Parm Evans on 07501 462045.