London Underground drivers have announced new strike action despite recent pay discussions with TfL. Union officials say workers will walk out on April 8 and May 4.
It comes after walk outs were averted in January after the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, provided extra cash to TfL so that negotiations with unions could restart. A spokesperson for ASLEF told MyLondon on January 17 when asked how they were progressing: “Pay talks resume today and we look forward to what management has to say.”
But now fresh action by the ASLEF union threatens serious disruption across the capital’s transport network on these dates. Finn Brennan, the union’s organiser on London Underground, said TfL has failed to give assurances that changes to terms and conditions will not be imposed without agreement.
READ MORE: Exactly when London Underground will get its revamped Central line trains
He said: “Despite a previous commitment to withdraw plans for massive changes to drivers’ working conditions, London Underground management has established a full-time team of managers preparing to impose their plans.
“They want drivers to work longer shifts, spending up to 25 per cent more time in the cab, and to remove all current working agreements in the name of flexibility and efficiency.
“Everyone knows what these management buzz words really mean. It’s about getting people to work harder and longer for less.”
ASLEF drivers have voted by 98% in favour of strikes. They previously went on strike a year ago in the same dispute.
A source close to Mr Khan told MyLondon: “Strikes are bad news for everyone and the Mayor urges ASLEF and TfL to continue talks to find a resolution to this dispute, and prevent this potential disruption to Londoners.”
Our London Underground newsletter brings you the latest travel updates to help you survive your commute – as well as a weekly dose of Tube trivia! You can sign up HERE.
Do you have a transport or politics related story that you think MyLondon should be reporting? If so, email [email protected]
No adverts or pop-ups! Just our brilliant MyLondon stories, breaking news and features presented in the best way possible.
Get your free one-month trial by visiting the ‘Premium’ tab on the MyLondon app now (auto renews annually at £19.99).
If you haven’t got the app already, get started by downloading it here on iPhone or here on Android. If you already have the app but can’t see the ‘Premium’ section, you’ll need to check for the latest update. More info here.
