Train operators on the Elizabeth line are set to participate in strikes across four designated days in the upcoming weeks due to a pay-related disagreement.
Aslef union members will be engaging in industrial action on Thursday, February 27, Saturday, March 1, Saturday, March 8, and Monday, March 10.
Nearly all drivers on this line belong to the union, having overwhelmingly voted in favor of calling for a strike. Aslef attributed the conflict to the actions of MTR Elizabeth line, the operating company.
Mick Whelan, general secretary of Aslef, remarked: “Our members have played a vital role in the achievements of the Elizabeth line – it’s a collaborative effort between workers and the company. Unfortunately, despite our attempts to negotiate, MTR has chosen to overlook the significant contribution and value of train drivers in this success.”
MTR, which will hand over operational duties to Tokyo Metro and Go-Ahead in May, has proposed a 4.5% salary increase, which is congruent with the pay agreements made with other train drivers.
The Elizabeth line, a major cross-London transit route that commenced operations in May 2022, serves around 800,000 passengers daily.
Other transport services in London, such as the tube, Overground, and various national rail services, will continue to operate normally.
A spokesperson for Transport for London commented: “We urge Aslef and MTR Elizabeth line to strive towards resolving this matter amicably to prevent any disruption to our customers due to strike actions.”
Mike Bagshaw, managing director of MTR Elizabeth line, expressed disappointment at the drivers’ decision to reject the 4.5% wage increase and initiate industrial action. He emphasized that this offer would have preserved some of the industry’s highest wages along with improved terms and conditions.
“Should a strike occur, it will significantly affect those who depend on the Elizabeth line, and we will collaborate with Transport for London to ensure passengers are aware of alternative travel options. We are dedicated to working with Aslef to find a resolution to this issue,” Bagshaw stated.
Industrial disputes have continued intermittently on parts of the rail network despite resolving the major nationwide issues that caused two years of disruption last summer. Previously threatened strikes on the London Underground in November were averted following a successful pay agreement.
In positive developments for travelers, the RMT union has put a hold on strikes scheduled for the next three Sundays on Avanti West Coast intercity services to facilitate “intensive discussions” regarding their dispute over work on rest days.
Train managers represented by the union have held regular Sunday strikes, which are expected to continue until the end of May.
RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch noted: “We are temporarily suspending strike actions to allow for fruitful discussions. We are committed to utilizing the next three weeks effectively to reach a negotiated agreement in good faith.
“Nonetheless, Avanti must show genuine willingness to find middle ground if it aims to prevent further escalation of this dispute in the forthcoming weeks and months.”
