Unions have signalled that the Royal Family could face heating shortages over the festive season as tanker drivers plan to strike, raising concerns over fuel deliveries to the Sandringham estate.
According to the Daily Telegraph, approximately 400 drivers employed by Certas Energy, a primary supplier to the estate, are expected to walk out in a dispute over pay. The industrial action is scheduled to last 15 days, spanning from 22 December to 5 January. Unite, the union representing the drivers, warned that the strike could leave King Charles and Queen Camilla confronting a “cold Christmas.”
The disruption is not limited to the royal household. The union noted that schools, military facilities, petrol stations, and Royal Mail refuelling points may also be affected.
Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, said: “Certas drivers do not expect to be treated like royalty, but they do expect a fair pay increase from their employer.”
The union has criticised the company’s proposed 2 per cent pay rise, calling it insufficient to meet members’ expectations.
Certas Energy, however, emphasised that it has put forward an above-inflation pay offer and remains in negotiations with the union to avert a strike. A spokesperson said: “We have measures in place to mitigate any disruption to our customers, including Sandringham, should industrial action proceed.”
The King and Queen are expected to arrive at Sandringham in the next few days, joining joining close family members for festive period. The Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children are also understood to be spending Christmas at Anmer Hall – located on the estate.
Palace sources suggested that the strike, while potentially inconvenient, would not necessarily cause a crisis. The Sandringham estate benefits from backup heating systems, including a biomass boiler installed by the late Prince Philip, powered by woodchips harvested from estate grounds.
