PARAMEDICS and ambulance staff from the GMB union in the north west have voted for industrial action over cuts in ambulance cover, mileage allowances and vehicle staffing.

The ballot result found 94 per cent in favour of action from an almost 42 per cent turnout but it is not yet known whether this will lead to a strike or another form of industrial action.

Ray Carrick, GMB regional officer, said: "The ballot was undertaken after management refused the offer of talks on a number of issues including cuts in ambulance cover, mileage allowances, subsistence allowances and staffing of vehicles by agreed clinicians.

“Discussion on the start date for the first wave of action is now under consideration by the Branch Executive and notification will be sent shortly to NWAS management.”