Union in talks to save UK post jobs

Crucial talks on the future of the postal service were being held today following the shock warning that up to 30,000 jobs could be axed in the next 18 months.

Leaders of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) were meeting managers at postal group Consignia to try to head off a potentially damaging strike in the New Year.

The union warned it would consider calling a strike ballot if Consignia did not remove the 30,000 jobs threat by 1pm today.

It later emerged that a meeting had been arranged, although the union will still discuss a strike ballot if progress is not made.

Consignia insisted last night that no final decisions had been taken about possible job cuts.