Hundreds of security staff working for both houses of the UK Parliament have announced a strike in protest against low wages and difficult working conditions.

Members of the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) working at the Palace of Westminster declared they will strike from 07:00 to 19:00 UK time on the upcoming Wednesday and Thursday for two consecutive weeks.

The union stated that the employer’s decision to cancel six days of annual leave from members’ contracts, halt wage increases, and widen pay gaps between ethnicities particularly angered them.

A UK Parliament spokesperson said, “The decision to proceed with the strike is a disappointing outcome after months of ongoing engagement to try to resolve outstanding concerns.”

During the strike, the public holding tickets to attend Prime Minister’s Questions sessions will not be allowed entry to the building, and parliamentary pass holders will not be permitted to bring guests into the estate.

The union also indicated it will implement further action short of strike, including banning overtime and working strictly to contract terms until September 12.

Frances Hitchcock, the union’s general secretary, said, “To defend fair pay and conditions, our dedicated members at the Palace of Westminster will take industrial action this week coinciding with Parliament’s return from recess.”

She added, “These staff work around the clock to ensure the safety of MPs, Lords, staff, and visitors in the UK’s national parliamentary building. They deserve to be treated fairly and have their many concerns addressed by the employer.”

A UK Parliament spokesperson said, “Parliamentary security staff are valued colleagues, and we remain committed to working closely with staff and unions to address the issues raised and reach a resolution.”

The spokesperson noted that the safety and security of all members of the parliamentary community, as well as visitors, remains an absolute priority, adding, “Through close cooperation with the Metropolitan Police, we have implemented robust contingency plans to ensure both the safety of the estate as usual and no disruption to parliamentary business.”