East Coast Mainline Faces 22-Day Strike by Aslef Union
Passengers traveling between London and Edinburgh will experience months of disruption as LNER drivers have announced a 22-day strike starting from September to early November. Aslef, the train driver’s union, has declared that its members working for LNER will take strike action every weekend between just after midnight on 1 September and 10 November. This decision comes after what the union describes as a complete breakdown in industrial relations, bullying by management, and persistent breaking of agreements by the company.
The strike action will have a significant impact on passenger services on the east coast mainline, which is a crucial route between London and cities such as Leeds, York, and Newcastle. The disruption is expected to cause inconvenience and delays for thousands of commuters and travelers who rely on this route for their daily journeys.
Reasons for the Strike
Aslef’s decision to go on strike is a result of long-standing issues between the union and LNER management. The union has accused the company of repeatedly breaking diagramming and roster agreements, failing to adhere to the agreed bargaining machinery, and acting in bad faith. Mick Whelan, Aslef’s general secretary, emphasized that the union would prefer not to take strike action but felt compelled to do so due to the company’s failure to address these issues.
The strike action is not related to Aslef’s ongoing national dispute with 16 other train companies, which may soon be resolved if members accept a new pay deal negotiated between the government and Aslef bosses. However, the timing of the strike will pose a challenge for the new Labour government, as LNER is now being operated by the Department for Transport as an operator of last resort. The government took over the line after Virgin Trains East Coast, majority owned by Stagecoach, terminated its contract due to financial losses.
Impact on Passengers and Services
The 22-day strike is set to disrupt weekend services on the east coast mainline, affecting travelers between London and Edinburgh and other major cities along the route. Passengers are advised to check for alternative travel arrangements during the strike period and to allow for extra time when planning their journeys.
The strike action is expected to result in significant delays and cancellations, with LNER likely to operate a reduced timetable during the weekends affected by the industrial action. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated on the latest travel information and to consider alternative modes of transport if necessary.
LNER’s Response
The Guardian has reached out to LNER for comment on the strike action by Aslef. The company is yet to provide a response regarding the situation and its plans to mitigate the impact of the strike on passenger services. It remains to be seen how LNER will manage the disruptions caused by the industrial action and whether any resolution can be reached with the union in the near future.
In conclusion, the 22-day strike announced by Aslef will have a significant impact on passenger services on the east coast mainline, leading to disruptions and delays for travelers between London and Edinburgh. The reasons for the strike stem from long-standing issues between the union and LNER management, highlighting the need for improved industrial relations and communication within the railway industry. Passengers are advised to plan ahead and stay informed about any changes to their travel arrangements during the strike period.