Birmingham Bin Workers Reject Deal as Strike Enters Sixth Week

Striking workers overwhelmingly voted down a proposed agreement, prolonging the crisis that has left thousands of tonnes of rubbish uncollected and public health at risk.

Unite union members voted 97% against a 'partial deal,' citing inadequate protections against pay cuts of up to £8,000 for some workers.
The strike, which began on March 11, continues to leave an estimated 17,000 to 21,000 tonnes of rubbish on Birmingham streets, fueling public health concerns over rats and disease.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner invoked Military Aid to the Civil Authorities (Maca) to deploy office-based military planners to assist Birmingham City Council in logistical operations.
The council disputes union claims, stating only 17 workers would face pay reductions, far fewer than Unite's estimate of hundreds affected.
The rejection of the deal raises uncertainty over when the strike will end, as ongoing negotiations between the council and Unite remain unresolved.