only one Senior soulla In Ford Europe have indicated that some duplication of pro: duction will probably be reintroduced to guard against the devastating effect of even a short term toppage. But this expensiv Le will use llanc Llo aul. pany more anxious to crease its profitability through a flexibility offenSIVe.
Ford's was significant as the most substantial victory gained TO] some against the employers offensive. It will give every section of workers more confidence. only make Thatcher more there are the minimum of knock on ettects to othel sectors. In particular will be determined to hold the line in the public sector. THE of 6000 workers at Land Rover is facing much tougher opposition than the strike at Ford. Indeed, following the setback at Ford, the government is stepping up its efforts to force Land Rover management to stand up to the strike.
On Tuesday day two of the dispute, with clear threat directed management — give in to workforce the government WIll cut financial support to the company.
Her aim is to take revenge Land _Rovel workers for the successful strike at Ford. clearly wormed by the face The employers that average earning rose by 8.5 per cent in the year to last December. A year ago the annual rate of growth was 7.5 per and the last time that earn rent level was in 1982 At Land Rover pressure from the government is felt particularly sharply — manacement of Land Rover totally dependent on government SINCE 1982 support to maintain profitability and develop nev models.
Unlike Ford, Land Rover has been experiencing deep financial difover the last fem years, with a falling share of the British market and low profit rates But despite that, That cher's threat to withdran financial support bluff. As was made cleai when the government wa forced to back down over plans Eleo er or Land Rocer, American British capital, and final even the government, not prepared to see Lane Rover pass intr foreign nands - let alone clos The company clain that their current pay offer amounts to UVC. two , years approx imately the level of Ford settlement. But fact, with consolidation of bonuses into the basic pay it amounts to no more than 8 per cent.
•The determination of the workforce was in dicated by the solid response to the strike call, with mass pickets assembtat all the company's main gates. That mination will be needed in what looks like it will be a tough fight.
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FICIAL GAL JPPORT FORD • OFFICIAL PICKET