Whilst not wanting to get involved in the emotional whys and wherefores behind the proposed strike, the decision by UNITE to focus industrial action over the Christmas period has all the potential to be one of the biggest trade union public relations disasters of all time.
Few industrial actions on this scale are won without public support, and contrary to the opinion of an earlier poster I don't think Jo public who finds their Chritmas travel plans ruined, will be very forgiving and memories are long.
Although most members appear to have voted for strike action, it is debatable as to how many members anticipated the intial strike being for twelve days over the Christmas period and the danger for the Union is that some members who voted 'yes' could now waver in their support, if they perceive this is excessive. That is why most recent UK industrial action tends to be for multiple 48 hour periods.
Dare I say that UNITE could have well played into WW's hands and rescued defeat from the jaws of victory!