MEMBERS of the GMB union are protesting outside HSBC in Swindon to demand the reinstatement of two cleaners.

They will post up outside the bank’s Marlborough Road branch at noon on July 6. GMB believes the workers were dismissed unfairly and say the bank has tried to avoid accountability.

Protesters will hold up banners reading: ‘HSBC: Hucksters, Shysters, Bullies and Crooks.’

Andy Newman, GMB branch secretary, said: “We have two GMB members who work as cleaners for ISS on a contract with HSBC to clean the bank. HSBC suddenly told ISS that these cleaners would no longer be allowed on the premises, and because ISS has been unable to find these cleaners alternative work, they are being dismissed.

“It is a scandal that such third-party pressure can lead to a lawful dismissal from work, and because HSBC are not the employer, they avoid any proper process or accountability.

“GMB has seen the evidence presented by HSBC, and it is laughable. An allegation against one cleaner occurred on a day when she wasn’t even on site, as it was her day off. The other cleaner has worked there for 20 years without any previous trouble at all.”

“HSBC have behaved disgracefully, and we call on them to reconsider the high handed way that they have excluded two hard working and honest women. GMB will continue bringing this to the attention of HSBC’s customers until these cleaners see justice.”

The GMB works to improve the pay and conditions of members in their workplaces. It has over 630,000 members.