Staff members of the Metropolitan Police are set to vote on potential strike action amid a pay dispute, with a union arguing that civilian employees in the Met are regarded as “second-class citizens.”

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union announced that around 6,500 of its members will participate in the upcoming ballot to decide whether to initiate a campaign of industrial action.

The union contends that its members have been denied a £1,250 London allowance awarded to police officers, labeling it a “symbol of inequality within the Met.”

The Met Police has been contacted for a response.

Fran Heathcote, general secretary of the PCS union, stated: “While management advocates for a unified ‘One Met’, police staff continually face discrimination regarding pay, advancement, and job stability.

“Officers benefit from the allowance and complimentary travel, while numerous dedicated members supporting them find it difficult to make ends meet in one of the world’s priciest cities.

“It is time to turn the concept of ‘One Met’ from mere words into tangible action, fostering a work environment that ensures fairness, equality, and respect for everyone.”