North Sea oil workers vote for strike that union says could disrupt UK fuel supplies
Last updated 5th Oct 2026
Over 160 workers at North Sea oil and gas operator Apache have voted in favour of strike action in a pay dispute.
The Unite union warn that the industrial action, which could start this month, might severely disrupt UK fuel supplies as it encompasses Apache assets linked to the Forties and Beryl oil fields. It's claimed this could result in the entire Forties pipeline system shutting down.
Potential Impact on Fuel Supplies
Apache, however, asserts that walkouts are unlikely to affect other producers' operations via the Forties pipeline system. They also note the pipeline mainly exports oil, suggesting no direct impact on UK consumers.
A spokesperson from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero urges both sides to resolve the issue amicably, stating: “We have a diverse and resilient fuel supply. This is a crude oil pipeline and does not transport fuel.”
Recent spikes in UK diesel prices, attributed to global conflicts, have pushed inflation to a five-month high, increasing the cost of living for households. Last week, the UK joined G7 nations in releasing 100 million barrels from emergency stocks to tackle surging prices.
Unite Criticizes Apache Offer
Unite's general secretary Sharon Graham criticises Apache’s pay offer, stating: “We will not tolerate unacceptable pay offers and threats to withhold back pay from Apache. The operator is raking in eye-watering profits. It’s treating its highly skilled workers with contempt.”
Unite's industrial officer Stevie Davies added: “Unite’s members are being left with no option but to take strike action. Any disruption to Apache’s platforms would have a direct hit on the Forties pipeline and potentially severely affecting the UK’s fuel supplies.”
Apache responds by asserting that their offer is fair, providing a 4% pay increase, aligned with that given to non-unionised employees earlier in the year. They express a preference for resolving the matter through dialogue despite respecting the ballot result.