Tube strike threat in new year after unions turn down a 5% pay rise

TUBE passengers are facing the growing threat of strike action early next year after several unions rejected a proposed five per cent pay offer.

- Ross Lydall 

The RMT, which represents about 10,000 London Underground staff, is mid-way through balloting its members on possible walkouts. Unite has asked Transport for London to increase its offer to 6.1 per cent — with a strike ballot likely to follow if this is refused.

TSSA, which represents Tube managers, is also understood to have rejected the five per cent increase for the current financial year, despite TfL having insisted it is a “full and final offer”.

The result of the RMT ballot is due on December 19 — meaning the earliest a strike could be held is on January 3, as a fortnight’s notice has to be given.