Train drivers are gearing up for another series of strikes in their ongoing disagreement over wages.
The Aslef union has disclosed plans for a “rolling program” of walkouts spanning from December 2 to 8, impacting different train companies each day. Additionally, drivers will be abstaining from any overtime work from December 1 to 9.
Aslef contends that it is time for a “substantial pay increase,” while the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), representing operators, deems the action “completely unnecessary.”
UK Hospitality, an organization representing businesses in the hospitality sector, has cautioned that the strikes will adversely affect the industry during the “critical festive period,” potentially resulting in losses of up to £800 million.
Kate Nicholls, the head of UK Hospitality, emphasized the significance of avoiding strikes in December, stating, “Hospitality businesses depend on revenue generated during the busy festive period to sustain them through the slower months of January to March.”
Despite the 18-month-long dispute, minimal progress has been achieved, with Aslef rejecting a pay offer earlier in the spring. The union has already orchestrated 14 one-day strikes, causing extensive disruptions for train companies in England, as well as services that traverse borders.
Aslef’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, asserted, “Our members have made their voices heard, consistently voting overwhelmingly for strike action in pursuit of a substantial pay increase. This is a clear rejection of the offer presented in April.”