Train drivers to go on strike on 30 July

Train drivers at eight rail companies will strike on Saturday, 30 July in a dispute over pay, union Aslef has said.

A total of 4,500 staff will walk out after talks broke down over pay, with the union seeking wages to keep pace with the rising cost of living.

It comes a day after the RMT union, which represents workers such as guards and signalling staff, said it would strike on Wednesday, 27 July.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps called the strike action “destructive”.

Mick Whelan, general secretary of Aslef, which represents train drivers, said its members “don’t want go on strike” but train companies had offered “nothing” and claimed the union had been “forced into this position by the train companies, driven by the Tory government”.

“We don’t want to inconvenience passengers – not least because our friends and families use public transport, too, and we believe in building trust in the railways in Britain – and we don’t want to lose money by going on strike,” he said.

Mr Whelan said the union was open to further talks for a “fair and sensible offer”.

The date of action on 30 July coincides with the Commonwealth Games, which are being held in Birmingham. The event runs from 28 July until 8 August. It is also the the opening day of the new season for most English Football League clubs.

It is understood the action could have a knock-on effect on services running on the Sunday.

Mr Shapps said: “It’s incredibly disappointing that, just three days after their ballots closed, Aslef bosses have already opted for destructive strike action, instead of engaging in constructive talks.

“Not only that but, by cynically orchestrating strike dates around the Commonwealth Games, it’s clear union bosses are determined to cause as much misery as possible and derail an event the whole country is looking forward to.”