Tube drivers in strike vote

Submitted by SJW on 11 September, 2018 - 9:55 Author: Ollie Moore

Members of drivers’ union Aslef on London Underground are balloting for industrial action to win safer cabs. 

Unions say a recent incident on the Northern Line, in which passengers broke into the cab of a female driver and attacked her, vindicate long-running union complaints about the lack of security of drivers’ cab doors. Aslef’s ballot began on 4 September. RMT says it is also considering balloting its driver members. 

Unions are demanding a safe locking system for drivers’ cabs. London Underground has claimed this would be too expensive to install, with unions countering that they shouldn’t have to haggle over staff safety. 

If strikes were to take place, it is likely the entire Tube network would be severely affected, with few, if any, trains running. 

Meanwhile, RMT is preparing to ballot its driver members on the Central Line to demand the reinstatement of Paul Bailey, a driver sacked after “failing” a drug test that in fact showed he was within the acceptable limits for cannabinoids.

An RMT statement said: “This travesty calls into question the integrity of the entire drugs and alcohol policy testing regime.”

This website uses cookies, you can find out more and set your preferences here.
By continuing to use this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.