Staff walkouts threaten disruption at museums
It has come to this. Industrial action, if that is not a misnomer in the context of museums, has now driven all the way through the public sector to the custodians of our cultural icons (some in very rural places like Stonehenge). Things must be at a low ebb when those responsible for dinosaur bones and antique maps feel the need to take action. This story tells us:
Museums, galleries and tourist attractions nationwide could be subject to part closures over the next few days as union workers strike in a row over pay, working conditions and pensions.
As the busy half-term week continues, hundreds of staff at the National Gallery and Tate galleries in London will walkout on Thursday, which could result in some part-closures, while Tate Liverpool has announced it will close for the day.
On Friday, staff at the Natural History, Science and Victoria and Albert museums in London, as well as workers at National Museums Liverpool, a group of seven free museums, will refuse to work along with staff from a range of government departments. On Sunday, union members at English Heritage sites, including Stonehenge, will strike