British Museum closes due to strike action

The British Museum has been forced to close as a result of strike action taking place today (1 February) having initially hoped to remain open.

A statement put out by the museum this morning said the impact of the strike, being held by Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) members, meant it was not possible to open safely for visitors or staff.

"This is not a decision taken lightly and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause," the statement added.

READ MORE:

• DCMS and Creative Scotland staff set to strike
• Equity secures pay rises for performers and creatives

Besides the British Museum, PCS members at the Department for Culture, Media, Digital and Sport (DCMS), Creative Scotland, Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland, National Galleries of Scotland, National Lottery Heritage Fund, National Museums Liverpool, National Museums Scotland, National Records of Scotland, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and the Wallace Collection are also striking today.

Further strike action at the British Museum has been scheduled for a seven-day period from 13 to 19 February, which includes the half-term period.

A British Museum spokesman yesterday said that the museum would open on a phased basis during any strike action.

“This industrial action is part of a nationwide dispute across the public sector and focuses on matter that are common across the sector and outside the control of the museum,” the spokesman told the Museums Association.

“We have a carefully rehearsed operational plan in place to respond to any staff shortages on strike days. 

"That plan prioritises a safe and secure opening of the museum on a phased basis. We will endeavour to keep visitors informed of any disruption on our website with updates throughout the day.”

PCS union is campaigning for a 10% pay rise in light of the cost-of-living crisis, as well as pensions justice, job security and no cuts in redundancy terms.