PROSPECT has signed its first voluntary recognition agreement with a company solely involved in the fast-growing space industry.

Describing the deal enabling collective bargaining as a “significant milestone” for the trade union, Prospect negotiator Ian Kelly said: “By securing this agreement in the growing UK space industry, we are ensuring that the values of fair work and good conditions are upheld in new frontiers.

“Our dedicated members and activists at HE Space have been instrumental in this achievement and, together, we will continue to champion the best interests of all employees.”

The agreement with the company, which provides specialist services and people to the space industry, covers workers in its British arm, most of them in Harwell, Oxfordshire.

Earlier this month, Prospect agreed an industry-first, multi-year pay deal with archaeological services provider MOLA following constructive negotiations.