Train drivers on London’s Elizabeth line are to stage a series of strikes in the next few weeks in a dispute over pay.
Members of Aslef will walk out on February 27 and on March 1, 8 and 10.
They are employed by MTR on the popular line, which runs through central London.
Mick Whelan, Aslef’s general secretary, said: “Our members have been instrumental in the success of the Elizabeth line – it’s a partnership, in practice, between the company and its employees – but, despite our best efforts, MTR has decided not to recognise the input, the importance, and the value of train drivers in this success.”
The drivers previously voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action.
Mr Whelan added: “I suspect that the company’s intransigence is because it has lost the contract with Transport for London (TfL) to run the Elizabeth line.
“If that is indeed the case, it is very disappointing to see the company behave this way.”
Nigel Gibson, one of Aslef’s district organisers, said: “Taking action is always a last resort, because we do not want to inconvenience passengers and our members do not want to lose money, and I hope that the company, seeing the strength of feeling amongst our members, their drivers, will do the right thing and return to the negotiating table.”
Mike Bagshaw, managing director for MTR Elizabeth line, said: “We are disappointed that drivers on the Elizabeth line have rejected a 4.5% pay rise and voted for industrial action.
“The offer would have maintained some of the highest salaries in the industry, along with enhanced terms and conditions.
“Any potential strike action will be disruptive for those who rely on the Elizabeth line, and we will work closely with Transport for London to ensure customers are informed of alternative travel options.
“We remain committed to engaging with Aslef in the hope of resolving this dispute.”
MTR will cease to operate the Elizabeth line on May 24, at which point it will hand over to a consortium of Go-Ahead Group, Tokyo Metro and Sumitomo Corporation.
A Transport for London spokesperson said: “We encourage Aslef and MTR Elizabeth line to continue working towards resolving this dispute and avoid impacting our customers with strike action.”
