As a mark of respect for the Queen’s passing, Aslef canceled a scheduled halt on 15 September; nonetheless, 12 railway companies will proceed with strike action in October, affecting travel to the Conservative conference.
In a protracted disagreement over salary, train drivers will renew their strike next month.
As a token of respect following the passing of the Queen, the Aslef union canceled its planned walkout on September 15th.
However, on the 1st and 5th of October, 12 train companies’ drivers will engage in industrial action, affecting travel to and from the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham.
Aslef would not react officially to the industrial action until Monday, following the state funeral of the deceased king.
Due to the legal necessity to provide 14 days notice of planned stoppages, it is believed the drivers’ union has already informed the train operators.
However, the timing of the decision has been criticized.
A source in the rail industry stated, “The Aslef leadership’s decision to declare strike action to train operators today is, quite frankly, unfathomable and completely disrespectful.”
“During this time of national grief, the entire rail family is working hard to assist the hundreds of thousands of people who wish to pay their respects to Her Majesty the Queen.”
It follows a summer of train union strikes that caused severe disruptions for passengers and workers in other industries, including postal and telecommunications services.
As the cost-of-living problem continues to worsen, industrial action is expected to persist into the winter.
