Unite union warns Apache offshore strike could disrupt UK fuel supplies

Unite says a 24‑hour walkout by Apache offshore staff on Oct 21 could disrupt the Forties pipeline and UK fuel supplies.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 19 Oct 2026 14:27:44 GMT

More than 160 offshore workers employed by Apache are set to strike for 24 hours on Wednesday 21 October, Unite says, warning that the action could disrupt UK fuel supplies from the North Sea.

What happened

The strike will involve staff across several trades, including production and telecoms technicians, on seven platforms in the Forties and Beryl developments. A second walkout is scheduled for 4 November.

What the reports add

Both the Standard and the Independent report that the strike is part of a pay dispute, with Unite alleging that Apache has offered real‑terms pay cuts despite the company’s profitability. The outlets note that talks with the conciliation service Acas are planned before the 24‑hour action, but Unite’s industrial officer Stevie Davies expressed little optimism about Apache’s willingness to resolve the dispute.

What was said

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham told the Standard, "Apache is part of a global company which is making billions of pounds in profit. They can easily afford to resolve this dispute without even a dent in their profits by making an acceptable offer to our members. The fact is Apache has so far chosen not to do this which is putting UK fuel supplies at risk. That is reckless behaviour and it is driven by shameful corporate greed." The Independent quoted the same statement.

Unite industrial officer Stevie Davies said to both outlets, "Talks are set to take place with the conciliation service Acas prior to the 24‑hour strike action. We want these talks to be successful but we are not hopeful because Apache has shown no willingness to resolve this dispute. Many of our members have been offered a real terms pay cut – and that is unacceptable for an extremely profitable oil and gas operator."

How it came about

Unite has previously highlighted industrial action in the energy sector, including a recent strike by hospital staff in London (Unite calls London hospital staff strike over £15.89 hourly pay) and broader concerns about fuel supply disruptions such as the Tunisia fuel strike (Tunisia Fuel Strike Highlights Economic Anger). The current dispute follows Unite’s ongoing campaign for better pay for offshore workers amid rising energy prices.

Key facts

More than 160 Apache offshore workers will strike for 24 hours on 21 October. (standard.co.uk)
The strike will affect seven platforms in the Forties and Beryl developments. (standard.co.uk)
A second strike is scheduled for 4 November. (standard.co.uk)
Unite claims Apache has offered real‑terms pay cuts despite high profits. (standard.co.uk)
Talks with Acas are planned before the strike, but Unite doubts Apache’s willingness to settle. (standard.co.uk)