Government knew of P&O Ferries sackings the day before, No 10 admits

Labour and unions demand immediate action including suspending licences of parent company DP World

• There were grown men in tears': P&O crews stunned by sackings
• Scandalous betrayal': MPs condemn P&O Ferries

Unions and the Labour party have demanded immediate action over the sacking of 800 British crew by P&O Ferries, including suspending the licences of its parent company, DP World, as it emerged the government was made aware of the move the previous night.

Amid public calls for a boycott of P&O and protests at ports, unions demanded the government urge the firm to reverse its decision, and curb DP World's involvement in planned freeports.