Passport office staff have launched a three day strike at one of the busiest times of the year.

The strike by members of the Public and Commercial Services Union was prompted by the latest pay offers and the threat of office closure.

The action could lead to the cancellation of interviews and delay the issuing of passports.

Union group assistant secretary, Vince Maple said he anticipated passport offices in both Maidstone and Dover being affected by the industrial action.

The Maidstone office was opened at the end of 2007 and has six staff.

Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, said of the strike: “It is disgraceful that long serving passport staff should receive no pay rise for the fifth year in a row and that efficient hardworking staff should be rewarded with a pay cut in real terms.

“With food, fuel and housing cost soaring, the government’s policy of below inflation pay has further incensed a workforce uncertain about their future but passionate about the service they provide.”

However, despite fears of disruption, Government officials insisted that everyone due to have an appointment during the strike period would still be seen.

A spokesman for the Identity and Passport Service said: “IPS regional offices and the Interview Office Network will maintain a service to the public and keep any inconvenience to a minimum.

“All IPS regional office counters will remain open and we are able to issue passports for those in emergency situations or with urgent needs.”

The strike is due to end on Friday.