Airport caterers sue for damages

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More than 100 catering workers whose sacking caused travel chaos at Heathrow Airport are to fight for compensation.

They were among 700 staff dismissed by Gate Gourmet in the summer last year in a row over restructuring.

The action sparked a bitter dispute between the firm and the unions, and BA staff walked out in sympathy, affecting 70,000 passengers.

A settlement was eventually reached but about 140 former employees are suing the firm for unfair dismissal.

An employment tribunal in Reading will hear submissions from both sides and decide whether to proceed with individual claims.

Many of those who refused the compromise deal with Gate Gourmet were expected to attend the hearing, due to last two weeks.

Gate Gourmet supplies British Airways with tens of thousands of meals for in-flight catering.

A spokesman for Gate Gourmet said: "These events took place over a year ago. Nine out of ten cases have already been sorted out."