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Tube Strike: Drivers Angry At Pay

Tube Strike: Drivers Angry At Pay

London Underground drivers have voted by 97% to strike next month in a row over pay and the introduction of a new all-night Tube service.

Aslef, the tube driver's union, has voted overwhelmingly to take the 24-hour action on Tuesday, 8 July, on the back of objections to London Underground plans which it says would mean Tube drivers having to work an unlimited number of weekend and night shifts for no extra pay.

London's Tube trains are set to operate a 24-hour service at weekends from 12 September.

Aslef said that 81.3% of its members voted, with 97.6% backing strike action. The union has 2,236 members.

The votes and turnout levels were both above the new thresholds being weighed up by the government for union ballot strikes.

Finn Brennan, Aslef's district organiser, said: "There is a window of opportunity for London Underground managers to avoid a summer of disruption by seriously engaging with us to find a solution. They need to withdraw the threat to impose new rosters and make a realistic offer on pay and conditions.

"We are always prepared to talk, but they have to start listening to this very clear message from their staff.

"Our members are entitled to a family life and to some sort of work/life balance. We aren't opposed to all-night services but we want them introduced in a fair and sensible way which rewards staff for their hard work and the contribution they make to the success of the London Underground."

The Tube strike is due to start at 9.30pm on 8 July.

The concept of a 24-hour tube service was first promised by London Mayor Boris Johnson in November 2013.

The launch of the Night Tube service will coincide with the Rugby World Cup, which is being hosted in England in September and October.