Unite leader Len McCluskey has warned BMW bosses that “serious industrial action will occur” if they continue to ignore concerns and close the firm’s defined benefit scheme.

The Unite general secretary warned in a letter that over 7,000 employees plan to take strike action if bosses close the final salary scheme by 31 May 2017.

Following a consultation including affordable proposals by the union to keep the scheme running, BMW bosses have noted that they will continue with plans to close the scheme.

Unite referred to the consultation as a “sham” and stated that 96 per cent of the workforce indicated a willingness to take industrial action in a consultative ballot.

McCluskey wrote: “At a recent meeting of senior Unite shop stewards from all plants, I was able to gauge the concern, frustration and anger of our members.

“It is evident that, if we do not resolve the differences that exist, then the likelihood of serious industrial action will occur.”

McCluskey added: “I am therefore suggesting that I meet with senior members of BMW management to review current positions” before concluding that he expected the company to put on hold “any timetable that the company may be working to until we meet.”

The BMW Group’s plans followed its reporting of record profits of approximately £6bn.

BMW has now agreed to a meeting on the issue which will take place on Monday 20 February with McCluskey, Unite representatives and senior BMW bosses.

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