UPDATE: London bus passengers are facing significant disruptions as approximately 350 workers from London Transit, part of First Bus, are set to strike from November 14 through November 17 and again on November 26-28. The strike is a response to what union leaders are calling a “disgraceful” pay offer, and it will result in little to no service on seven bus routes in Southwest, West, and Northwest London.
The strike action begins at 5 AM on each strike day, lasting until 5 AM the following day. This disruption will also impact night buses and 24-hour routes, leaving many commuters scrambling for alternatives. Transport for London has confirmed the affected routes include the 13, 23, 31, N31, 218, 295, and 452.
Union officials are expressing outrage over the pay negotiations, stating that the proposed package falls below inflation and fails to reflect the hard work of employees. Sharon Graham, General Secretary of the Unite Union, stated, “
This is disgraceful behaviour from a company making millions from London bus passengers. It shows an utter disregard for its workers and the hard work they do day in, day out.
” She emphasized that the union will fully support its members in this dispute.
Previously, over 2,000 bus workers took industrial action for four days this autumn regarding the same pay issues, highlighting ongoing tensions. The core of the disagreement revolves around First Bus allegedly refusing to backdate all elements of the pay offer, resulting in significant losses for drivers in back pay.
In response, a spokesperson for First Bus expressed disappointment with the strike ballot outcome, stating, “Our enhanced, above-inflation offer with full back pay for all employees reflects the value we place on our people and our commitment to protecting them from the rising cost of living, even in the challenging financial environment we operate in.”
While all other bus routes, Tube, and rail services will continue as scheduled during the strikes, passengers are urged to expect busier conditions and to plan for longer travel times.
As the situation develops, commuters are advised to monitor updates and prepare for the disruptions. The impact of this strike could resonate throughout the city, affecting thousands of daily travelers. Stay tuned for further updates on this escalating situation.
