Boxing Day travel chaos as London Tube drivers announce strike

PA

Boxing Day sale shopping plans could be going out of the window as London Tube drivers are set to strike after demands for triple pay and a day in lieu were turned down.

Staff requested three days' pay - around £366 - for the shift, stating that 'substantial incentives' would be required to work the day.

The Boxing Day strike, announced by trade union Aslef, is just the first of four 24-hour strikes, with the other three set for 16 January and 3 and 13 February.

Members of Aslef represent 2,200 of London's 3,500 Tube drivers, and 92% of them voted for industrial action.

The decision has come under fire from the London Chamber of Commerce, who has accused the drivers of 'holding London businesses to ransom', as the British high street faces some of its toughest times.

Colin Stanbridge, Chief Executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called the move "unreasonable" and told the Daily Mail: "Retailers have already had one of their toughest years with recent sales figures showing a decline year-on-year fuelled by poor consumer confidence, rising unemployment and mild weather.

"The last thing they need now is disruption on Boxing Day, one of their most important trading dates."

Some critics have pointed out that Tube drivers already earn £45,545 a year and have 43 days of holiday.

But Mick Whelan, general secretary of the union, told the Evening Standard: "Obviously working Boxing Day and other bank holidays means unsocial hours for our members.

"That is why we are asking for substantial remuneration for working these duties."

Do you think Tube drivers should receive three days' pay to work on days like Boxing Day? Leave your thoughts below...

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