Industrial action by inspectors from Defra plant health department is continuing.
The action, which started on January 21, includes Defra specialists who deal with protecting the UK from invasive pests and diseases which could threaten forests.
It does not involve a strike but a work-to-rule, with members sticking to the letter of their contracts and boycotting voluntary activities such as non-emergency surveys and briefings.
Prospect, the union representing more than 730 inspection specialists from Defra and other bodies, said the action follows Defra’s decision to impose a pay award that denied any increase for the most experienced staff.
Prospect said the move had affected the motivation of its members.
