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Commuters across Britain are bracing for further travel disruption as train drivers at 16 rail companies and London Underground tube drivers have announced strike action for next month.
Members of Aslef, the train drivers’ union, will stage a series of one-day walkouts from April 5 to 8, along with a six-day ban on overtime. The strikes coincide with the Easter Holidays, affecting families and returning office workers.
The London Underground tube drivers’ strike is scheduled for April 8, as well as May 4. This coordinated action aims to maximize disruption, coinciding with high-profile events in London, including a Peter Kay gig at the O2 and football matches at clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea.
The strikes stem from long-running disputes over pay and working conditions. Train drivers have not received a pay rise since April 2019, while tube drivers are protesting changes to their working conditions, including longer shifts and reduced agreements.
Aslef General Secretary Mick Whelan criticized the government and train companies for their handling of the dispute, accusing them of being “intransigent” and “tone-deaf.” Despite repeated attempts to negotiate, including renewed mandates for industrial action, no resolution has been reached.
Finn Brennan, the London Underground union organiser, highlighted the failure of management to assure drivers that changes to terms and conditions will not be imposed without agreement. Tube drivers have overwhelmingly voted in favour of strikes, with a 98 percent approval rate.
The announcement of strikes follows previous travel chaos in February and January, demonstrating ongoing tensions between unions, management, and the government.
Both Aslef and London Underground management express a desire to minimize disruption and resolve the disputes. However, negotiations have yet to yield a solution acceptable to all parties.
With the potential for significant disruption to travel plans and public events, passengers are advised to monitor developments closely and plan alternative routes if necessary.
Responding to the announcement of the new strike dates BusinessLDN Deputy Chief Executive Muniya Barua said: “It’s hugely frustrating for Londoners, visitors and businesses that the capital is set to grind to a halt once again due to industrial action.
“At a time when our economy is flatlining, these disruptive strikes will hit sectors such as hospitality and retail that rely on footfall especially hard.
“All sides should work together to break the current deadlock.”