A UK union is backing the strike by Italian IBM staff, which will take place on the company's premises in Second Life.

Unite, which includes Amicus and represents IBM workers in the UK, said that its involvement could see the same kind of action carried out in UK disputes if it proves successful.

"This is an intriguing new initiative which we are involved with, and we are keen to see how it develops," Peter Skyte, national officer for the IT sector at Unite, told vnunet.com.

"We will be monitoring the outcome closely with a view to developing similar activities and actions among IT companies in the UK."

Skyte added that, even though the IBM strike is a virtual activity, it had already produced positive results in drawing attention to the pay dispute at IBM Italy.

"It also strengthens international communication, cooperation and collective action across unions and the IBM workforce worldwide," he said.

Italian workers are striking after a request for a small pay increase was turned down, despite IBM making large profits.