TUBE workers are to vote on taking industrial action over pay, the RMT union has announced.
Popular on LondonNet
Staff in London Underground’s power control room section are expected to vote heavily in favour of action over what many see as “broken promises” by Tube management.
“The company have failed to come up with a serious package that meets past promises they have given us on pay,” said Bob Crow, RMT leader.
“Our members rejected the latest proposals by 100% and we now have no option to move to a ballot for action involving these essential staff who power up the entire Tube system.”
“We have no doubt they will deliver a rock solid mandate.”
In response, London Underground urged the RMT to continue negotiations before pressing the industrial action button.
“Discussions are ongoing and we would urge the RMT to continue with constructive talks,” said a Transport for London spokesperson.
Boris Johnson has yet to comment on the proposed industrial action, but earlier this month, the London Mayor said he wants the government to make it harder for the RMT to go on strike.
“I propose having a threshold, so that you can only have a strike when at least 50% of the members of the relevant part of the union workforce have actually taken part in the ballot,” he said.
Both Crow and Johnson are to appear on tomorrow (Friday) night’s Radio 4 political panel show, Any Questions, where the power control room issue is likely to be aired.
Johnson looks to be shifting into election mode as he has also just launched a Back Boris – Re-Elect Boris Johnson Mayor in 2012 website.
