BMW workers striking over the company’s decision to close the final salary pension scheme have begun voting on whether to accept the German car-maker's 'final offer'

It follows a series of 24-hour strikes which in recent weeks have taken place at BMW’s Swindon plant.

The company earlier this month made an offer to the workforce which involved members being able to choose between taking a £25,000 tax free payment, split over three years, which would be placed into a defined contribution scheme, or accepting a payment of £22,000, which would be subject to tax and national insurance deductions.

But members of the union Unite voted to reject it, with 56.6 per cent voting against the deal and 43.4 per cent voting to accept it.

In a letter sent to members, the union said: “A meeting was held at the Unite offices in London on June 16 with senior management of the company.

“BMW put forward their final proposals, which they have confirmed is their last proposal and will not be altered.”

The letter made it clear that, should members vote for further strike action, the company would terminate their contracts.

The ballot will take place from today until Friday, July 7. The results will be announced on Monday, July 10.