Commuters take the pain and strain...

20 November 2009

THIS MORNING'S commute took on pain and anger as bus services across Newham look have been hit as drivers with 2,500 East London Bus and Coach Company stage a 48-hour strike.

Their union Unite started industrial action from 3am and hit operations out of garages in Upton Park, West Ham, Barking, Bow, Leyton, and Romford.

A previous strike on Monday last week lasted for 24 hours.

And in a new threat to travellers Unite warns of strike waves on London's public transport with members employed by EDF, working for London Underground, having already voted overwhelmingly for strike action and today the result of a ballot for 2,500 First Group bus workers in the capital being announced along with a further ballot of CT plus Busworkers.

The disputes are over a pay freeze by the East London bus company and Mayor Boris Johnson's transport plans, which include fare hikes.

Steve Hart, Regional Secretary of Unite has called for "realistic" negotiations with employers with improved offers.