Elizabeth Line train drivers to strike over pay

Train drivers who are members of ASLEF – the trade union which represents 96% of the train drivers in England, Scotland, and Wales – have voted to go on strike on the Elizabeth line in London.

Drivers will walk out on 27th February, 1st March, 8th March and 10th March from 00:01 to 23:59.

Mick Whelan, general secretary at ASLEF, 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 Elizabeth line, run by MTR and named after the late Queen Elizabeth II, was the infrastructure project originally known as Crossrail.

ASLEF worked closely with the company at all stages to ensure the success of the new line in the capital.

Drivers voted for industrial action: 95% yes, 5% no, on a turnout of 88%.

Whelan added: “I suspect that the company’s intransigence is because it has lost the contract with 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, full-time district organiser at ASLEF and lead officer with MTR, 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.”