I can't understand you
I am posting from the sidelines, not being based in the UK. nevertheless, my view is this:
All you people against any form of union, saying things like: "it could'nt have come at a worst time", or "They could close UK bases, if pilots join a union", do you ever look outside your cockpit windows?
Acoording to management, times are ALWAYS at their worst, and "we" all have to "wind back a little, forego a pay rise etc...", so as the company can still make an "honest buck".
And, do any of you really believe that if you don't join a union, bases won't be closed? If it can be done cheaper elsewhere, it will be, union or no.
There is almost no detriment to being in a union, even if you only use it as place where you can get some pointers as to how you can deal with certain problems visited upon you.
Where I am, there is a pilots association. It is not really strong, but it does come in handy sometimes.
regards
Edit: lousy spelling