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Mr Hussain, who estimated about 150 people attended the meeting, said talks held at the arbitration service Acas had failed and people now wanted an independent panel to be created to take over negotiations.

The ballot was not a response to the latest offer made through the conciliation service Acas, they added.

Talks have been held under the chairmanship of Acas, but the dispute has remained in deadlock.

Ms Graham said the offer would be discussed with reps over the weekend and a detailed response would be issued ahead of a reconvened Acas meeting.

Unite has called for further negotiations with the city council after a "ball park" proposal discussed at talks with conciliation service Acas had been revised "by government commissioners and the council leader".