Rail disruption anticipated as ASLEF prepare drivers refuse to work extra time for six days

​​​​​​​Disruption to rail journeys are anticipated throughout the nation this week as prepare drivers refuse to work extra time for six days.

ASLEF introduced final month that its members would withdraw non-contractual extra time, often called rest-day working, with 16 of the nation’s 35 rail operators from Monday 3 July to Saturday 8 July.

Train firms affected are: Avanti West Coast; Chiltern Railways; Cross Country; East Midlands Railway; Greater Anglia; GWR; GTR Great Northern Thameslink; Island Line; LNER; Northern Trains; Southeastern; Southern/Gatwick Express; South Western Railway primary line; SWR depot drivers; TransPennine Express; and West Midlands Trains.

The motion might influence guests to the primary week of the Wimbledon tennis match.

It is known that there have been no negotiations between the union and the rail operators for the reason that motion was introduced on 19 June.

Mick Whelan, ASLEF’s basic secretary, stated on the time: “Once again, we find ourselves with no alternative but to take this action.

“We have regularly come to the negotiating desk in good religion, searching for to resolve this dispute.

“Sadly, it is clear from the actions of both the train operating companies and the Government that they do not want an end to the dispute.

“Their objectives look like to proceed industrial strife and to do down our trade.

“We do not wish to inconvenience the general public.

Rail strikes: Full listing of July dates, strains and companies affected by industrial motion

“We just want to see our members paid fairly during a cost-of-living crisis when inflation is running at above 10%, and to not see our terms and conditions taken away.

“It’s time for the Government and the businesses to suppose once more and search for a decision.”

A spokesman for the Rail Delivery Group responded: “ASLEF’s management continues to disrupt prospects’ journey plans.

“They rejected a fair and affordable offer without putting it to their members which would take average driver base salaries for a basic salary for a four-day week without overtime from £60,000 to nearly £65,000 by the end of 2023 pay awards.

“Train firms will work onerous to minimise the influence of the extra time ban however the influence of ASLEF’s motion will range throughout the 16 prepare operators and prospects are suggested to test their journey plans earlier than setting off.

“We ask ASLEF to recognise the very real financial challenge the industry is facing and work with us to deliver a better railway with a strong long-term future.”