London's best deal for bus drivers

Planned strike action by bus drivers employed by Arriva in North London has been called off after the workers secured an improved pay offer, Unite the union announced on Friday (September 30).

The 2,000 drivers, who are members of Unite will receive an 11 per cent pay increase from Saturday, October 15. The workforce will also receive 10 per cent in back pay from April 2.

In addition, drivers who undertake a night shift on 26 December will now receive an extra £50 payment.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This is a very strong result and establishes what can be achieved when union members stand together in unity.

“This deal demonstrates how Unite’s complete focus on the jobs, pay and conditions is paying direct dividends for our members.”

The drivers were due to begin all-out strike action from Tuesday, October 4 but that was suspended following the new offer by the company. Unite members were balloted on the offer and following its acceptance by the workforce the industrial action has been called off.

The pay increase represents the best deal across the London bus network and Unite will be seeking to replicate it with other bus companies operating in the capital.

Unite regional officer Steve Stockwell added, “This result would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Unite’s representatives.

“Unite will now be looking to build on this deal across the London bus network.”

By Barckley Sumner