BAGGAGE handlers and check-in staff at Luton airport begin a week-long strike against poverty pay at 6pm tomorrow.

More than 96 per cent of the workers voted to strike after pay claims submitted by the Unite union were ignored.

Airport management agreed to talk with the union this week, but Unite representatives rejected the bosses’ offer, which still includes a pay freeze for last year and below-inflation wage rises.

The strike is expected to continue until next Sunday.

Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge said: “Luton airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK. A strike by baggage handlers and check-in staff will cause considerable disruption to flights.

“Baggage handlers and check-in staff deserve an increase in pay so they can keep up with the rising cost of living.”

An airport spokesman said: “Our passengers are our number one priority and we are working with the airline and the ground handling company to ensure they have robust contingency plans in place to keep disruption to a minimum should the industrial action go ahead.”