London bus workers set for 'Olympics strike' over pay

Boris Johnson unveils London's new buses. Photo: PA

Around 28,000 bus workers have threatened industrial action during the London Olympic Games if their request for a £500 payment for being on duty is turned down.

Trade union, Unite, has applied to bus operators on their behalf, and believes that £500 would be in line with what other London transport staff will be receiving for working during that time.

Its regional secretary, Peter Kavanagh, said it was 'only right' as 800,000 extra passengers are expected to travel on buses during the Olympics.

According to the BBC, he said: "For too long Transport for London (TfL), the mayor and bus operators have treated London bus workers as second class citizens, while saying they are the best in the world.

"Our members are saying enough is enough. If you say they're the best treat them like they are."

Tube drivers are set to receive an extra payment of £500 for working during the Olympics thanks to lobbying by union Aslef, and London Overground workers are set to receive an minimum pay rise of £650 in 2012.

The news comes just as London mayor Boris Johnson unveiled the city's new double-decker hop-on hop-off bus (pictured) that will be operated by Arriva and will run from Victoria station to Hackney in east London.

Meanwhile, Tube drivers this week announced dates for four 24-hour strikes, including one on Boxing Day.

Do you think London bus workers should receive an Olympics bonus as well? Leave your thoughts below...


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