Union says striking Boeing workers not interested in latest contract offer

The union representing thousands of striking Boeing U.S. factory workers said late on Tuesday a survey showed members were overwhelmingly against the planemaker's latest pay proposal, which it described as its "best and final". Earlier in the day, Boeing said it would extend the timeline for a vote on a new contract after the union had rejected the company's initial Friday deadline. More than 32,000 Boeing workers in the Seattle area and Portland, Oregon, walked off the job on Sept. 13 in the union's first strike since 2008, halting production of airplane models including its best-selling 737 MAX. Nearly 95% rejected Boeing's offer of a 25% pay rise over four years, leading to the strike. An improved proposal announced by Boeing on Monday would lift the pay gain to 30% and restore a performance bonus, but the union said a survey of its members found that was not enough. "The survey results from yesterday were overwhelmingly clear, almost as loud as the first offer: members are not interested in the company's latest offer," International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751 said on Tuesday. The union has been seeking a 40% pay rise and the restoration of a defined-benefit pension that was taken away in the contract a decade ago.<br/>