HUNDREDS of aerospace workers are being balloted on strike action this week in a dispute over job cuts.

More than 600 employees at aero engine firm Rolls-Royce's Barnoldswick site will receive ballot papers asking whether they are prepared to take industrial action which could include a strike.

The move is the latest development in a long running row between unions and management at Rolls-Royce sites throughout the country over proposed job cuts.

"The company is looking for 800 more job losses across its sites. They are offering enhanced severance pay but our members would rather keep their jobs," said John Boardman, AEEU convenor at the site which employs more than 1,000.

"The wording of the ballot paper doesn't necessarily mean we will take strike action but it covers all options." Ballot papers will be sent out this week to workers in the fan systems division at the site and the result is expected in around 10 days.

More than 150 job cuts have already been announced at the Barnoldswick site in recent months. The firm has said it has to cut costs and change working practices to remain competitive.

Rolls-Royce was unavailable for comment earlier today.

Pendle MP Gordon Prentice is due to meet Rolls-Royce boss John Rose later this month to discuss the situation at the site.

He has already quizzed industry minister Alan Johnson on the Government's view of the firm's working practices shake-up.

In response to widespread concern on the proposals, Mr Prentice asked Mr Johnson to discuss with the company the state of the aero-engine industry, employment levels, and conditions attached to recent cash aid given Rolls to launch new projects.