The union for BHP Billiton's (BHP) Escondida copper mine rejected the mining giant's latest offer and announced that it has asked members to vote on whether to go on strike. The vote will take place between Jan. 27, 2017 and January 31, 2017. The union said the proposal by BHP was 'not well received', and that it contains the reduction of at least 15 social benefits that would impact monthly salaries. Carlos Allendes called on the members to vote for a strike and to prepare for an extended conflict. He said the strike could last at least a month. The workers asked, among others for a 7% increase in wages and a three-year agreement.