Cabin crew talks to resume next week

The latest round of peace talks between the Unite union and British Airways could take place next week as both sides attempt to avert any further travel disruption.

The long-running dispute over cabin crew pay and conditions, which has caused 22 days of strikes so far this year, is nearing its first anniversary.

In an email to members, Unite's joint general secretary, Tony Woodley, said the union focused on finding a resolution with BA under the guidance of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS).

BA boss Willie Walsh appears to have gained the upper hand on union workers as the majority of public sympathy has fallen on the side of the airline.

And the biggest hurdle to be jumped during next week's negotiations will be BA's refusal to reinstate travel perks confiscated from staff that participated in industrial action.

BA's latest offer, presented to cabin crew last month, did not include a climb down on the travel perks issue, and was swiftly rejected by workers.

At the time the union decided not to hold a ballot on further strike action.