Overview

• Birmingham refuse workers, on strike since March 11, rejected a proposed pay deal by 97%, citing significant pay cuts as unacceptable.
• The strike has left over 17,000 tonnes of rubbish uncollected, creating severe public health risks, including rat infestations and unsanitary streets.
• The UK Government has deployed office-based military planners to assist Birmingham City Council with logistical efforts to address the crisis.
• Union leaders warn that similar pay cuts in other councils could lead to industrial action spreading nationwide, further escalating tensions.
• Further negotiations are planned for Wednesday, but no resolution has been reached, leaving the city in ongoing disruption.