SOUTHAMPTON dockers could strike as part of the first national action for 14 years.

Up to 200 Associated British Ports workers in the city could walkout if the strike ballot, which threatens to bring the docks grinding to a halt, gives the green light.

It could see major roads and arteries into the city gridlocked as hundreds of lorries are stopped from accessing the docks.

"Because of the city's infrastructure it would undoubtedly cause chaos," said June Bradley, of Williams shipping.

Imports and exports at this crucial time of year could also be frozen, putting a huge strain on the economy with far-reaching effects.

A union spokesman said: "Ports are Southampton's - and the country's - primary economic generator and the effects of a possible strike could be devastating.

"Far East companies are shipping in goods in time for Christmas and this is one of the busiest times of year for ABP, so disruption could be serious."

The Transport and General Workers' Union spokesman for Southampton added that the outcome was "in the hands of ABP".

The row follows what they say is "a wholly inadequate" 2.9 per cent pay offer from Associated British Ports, owners and operators of the docks.

Dockers, drivers and port workers covering 23 UK ports rejected the offer by a three to one majority.

The T&G Union had sought to establish a minimum wage of £7.50 an hour for all employees and £10 an hour for drivers.

The union's national organiser for transport, Graham Stevenson, said: "This result sends a very clear message to ABP that our members are serious about fighting back this year to win realistic and meaningful improvements to wages and conditions.

"We are looking to raise not just the standard of living of our members but to bring employment conditions into the 21st century. If it takes a full national strike ballot to make progress, so be it."

Other demands include 23 days holiday a year, two weeks fully paid paternity leave and a one hour reduction in the working week to 38 hours.

The T&G accused ABP of refusing to discuss the details of the claim and pointed out profits had risen four per cent to £74.5m.

"The figures show what our people know," added Mr Stevenson.

"They are moving more goods at the ports but their contribution to increased profits isn't being recognised by ABP."

The postal ballot is to take place early in September.

A spokesman for ABP, which claims only 300 workers out of 3,000 are affected by collective bargaining, said: "We have not received any communication from the TGWU regarding balloting their ABP members on industrial action in connection with our national recognition agreement.

"ABP always seeks to maintain a constructive and open dialogue with its employees and with union representatives."