South West Train Drivers Strike Over Taxis

Series of 24-hour walk-outs to start next week

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South West Train drivers have announced a series of 24-hour strikes in a three year old row over taxis. 

Drivers claims that their bosses have reneged on a deal to provide taxis for employees who work on early morning or late night shifts.

Members of the Aslef union are set to stage their first walk-out next Tuesday 30th May and Thursday 1st June and again on 13th and 15th June.

A spokesperson for South West Trains said the use of taxis had been "abused" resulting in huge bills.  "We have decided to get costs under control. We feel we have made a reasonable offer. 

"We are disappointed that strike action has been announced, as we believe we have recognised the local representatives’ concerns and have offered to continue discussions with them. We will of course continue to do everything we can to stop these unnecessary strikes happening."

The indications are that South West Trains are planning to keep the longer distance routes operating at fully capacity and that any disruption caused by the strike will be on suburban routes such as the Hounslow Loop. Currently South West Trains say there will be a service operating but that passengers should expect cancellations.

May 27, 2006