Tube drivers are to be balloted for strike action after unions accused London Underground managers of making a “derisory pay offer” to staff who’ll work on the new Night Tube service when it launches this September.
The ASLEF and RMT unions claim LU has “closed down” negotiations is now trying to “impose” new rosters on staff who would be forced to work “anti-social hours”.
Between them the two unions represent the vast majority of Tube drivers, meaning it would be almost impossible for LU to maintain services during any strike.
Finn Brennan, ASLEF’s district organiser, said: “Our members are entitled to a family life and to some sort of work/life balance.
“We aren’t opposed to all night services but we want them introduced in a fair and sensible way which rewards staff for their hard work and the contribution they make to the success of the London Underground.
“Sadly, because the company refuses to negotiate seriously, we are left with no other choice than to ballot our members on industrial action.”
RMT General Secretary Mick Cash accused Mayor Boris Johnson and LU of “trying to bully staff into accepting roster changes” and said his union would co-ordinate action with ASLEF.
London Underground has denied the unions’ claims and insists its “committed to reaching an agreement that rewards our hardworking staff that is affordable, sustainable and fair.”
Nick Brown said: “To suggest that we’ve closed down negotiations is completely untrue and it is extremely disappointing the co-ordinated response by the unions has been to announce their intention to ballot members..”
