Union says BP lockout at Indiana oil refinery was unfair, urges return to talks

March 23 (Reuters) - The United Steelworkers said on Monday BP BP.L engaged in unfair labor practices by locking out nearly 800 workers at its Whiting, Indiana, oil refinery, and urged the company to resume contract talks.

"BP's decision to lock out these skilled workers is unacceptable and unlawful," said USW International President Roxanne Brown.

Last week, workers at the biggest refinery in the Midwest began picketing after the British oil major barred union members from entering the facility, following months of stalled contract negotiations.

BP said the lockout followed months of negotiations, adding it would continue to bargain in good faith but would lift the lockout only if the union accepts its latest proposal.

BP issued a lockout notice after the workers represented by the United Steelworkers rejected its "last, best and final" offer.

BP said earlier it did not expect the lockout to disrupt production.

Mike Smith, the USW national oil bargaining chair, emphasized that the union remains ready to negotiate.

BP did not immediately respond to a request for comment.