Strike looms at busiest US ports as 45,000 workers prepare to walk off job

Longshoremen's union says wage demands must be met or members will strike on Tuesday for first time since 1977

Ten of the busiest ports in North America are at risk of shutdown next week, as a leading union warns that 45,000 workers stand ready to walk off the job if industry operators fail to make key concessions.

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) has accused the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents 40 ocean carrier and terminal operators, of making insulting offers" to staff demanding higher pay and commitments on automation.