MP’s bodyguards were sent to work without stab vests and, in some cases, without having completed security clearance, the Unite union has alleged in a formal grievance against contractor Mitie.
Security staff employed under a new outsourced contract to protect at-risk MPs were refused the protective equipment despite the fatal attacks that killed MPs Jo Cox and Sir David Amess and PC Keith Palmer, the union has claimed.
The role was previously carried out by Metropolitan Police officers, who Unite argues were routinely issued with stab vests as standard.
Unite lodged the grievance over what it describes as Mitie’s treatment and management of the workers, and says the refusal to provide the equipment put both guards and the politicians they protect in danger.
“It is totally unacceptable to be penny pinching when it comes to the safety of workers,” said Unite general secretary Sharon Graham. “Mitie’s refusal to issue stab vests is putting our members and the MPs they are guarding at risk.”
