BT boss slams union over jobs-to-India

Accuses CWU of 'distorting the true situation'

BT Retail boss Pierre Danon has accused the Communications Workers Union (CWU) of "distorting the true situation" concerning the telco's move to open two new call centres in India.

In a scathing attack coinciding with today's "Day of Protest" outside all 34 of BT's Operator Centres, Mr Danon blamed the CWU for being disruptive and walking away from negotiations over plans to create 2,200 new jobs in India.

In what looks like becoming an increasingly bitter dispute Mr Danon said: "While I fully respect the Communication Workers Union's role in representing their members' interests, some of their words are distorting the true situation and helping no one.

"It is our policy to consult closely with the unions on any initiatives that affect our people and the India issue was no exception. We have been engaging with them for several months, but it was the union that walked away from the negotiating table," he said.

He went on: "Instead of continuing a constructive dialogue with us, they are trying to disrupt an organisation that has one of the best track records in the UK for dealing responsibly and sensitively with its people issues.

"I know of no other contact centre operator in the UK that is investing more in this country and its people. Our plans for India are measured and responsible, designed to make BT more competitive and better able to serve our customers. That in the longer term is crucial to safeguard our jobs in the UK.

"I just wish the union would acknowledge that and stop engaging in protests at centres where people are not even at risk of losing their jobs," said Danon.

The CWU has already said it is determined to "exploit every avenue to stop work moving to India" and has no "hesitation in sanctioning industrial action". ®

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