Unite’s ongoing determination to hold a new ballot for their proposed strike has raised speculation in press sectors that the union is facing massive internal disruptions.

The union announced the ballot would be retaken in the New Year, following the emergency injunction by the high court to ban the 12-day strike that was planned for Tuesday. Such a halt would have created huge misery for close to 1 million travelers this Christmas.

Now, the majority of the UK press has seized on allegations that a more extreme group within the union has publicly gone too far with its threats and demands. Senior figures behind Unite are worried that their reputation has taken onboard a great deal of negative publicity, especially when the leader of the union itself said the moves were a ‘possibly over the top’ form of response.

Tom Woodley, Unite’s joint general secretary, has stated that a new ballot would take place as soon as is humanly feasible, with legal staff investigating options. Woodley also expressed concerns that the ongoing delays and additional court costs could lead to allegations of incompetence amongst union members.

There is no doubt that members were deflated by the high court ruling, notably a decision by the court to claim that incorrect information had been posted about the ballot to members. Several cabin crew members expressed their dissatisfaction through the media. Many were also stunned at the length of the strike after initially merely voting for industrial action.

Whatever the next move, the prospect of a strike is will hang heavily over Christmas.