ASLEF July overtime ban 'another setback' for sector

20-Jun-2023 - Last updated on 20-Jun-2023 at 10:32 GMT

No alternative: train drivers union ASLEF has announced further rail disruptions for July (Credit: Getty/mrdoomits)

Next month's overtime ban from the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF) is "another setback" for the industry, trade body UKHospitality has stated.

Announced yesterday (Monday 19 June), the train driver’s union stated an overtime ban would take place between Monday 3 and Saturday 8 July amid ongoing pay disputes.

Members at 16 train companies, including but not limited to Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, LNER, Northern and Southern (inclusive of Gatwick Express) will participate in the industrial action.

UKHospitality (UKH) chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “The July overtime ban announced by ASLEF is another setback for hospitality businesses that have already suffered from this ongoing dispute.

Further disruption

"The industry as a whole has lost £3.25bn due to rail strikes, and the overtime ban will mean more lost sales, cancelled plans, and workers unable to get to work. We urge all sides to come together to reach an agreement as soon as possible to avoid further disruption.”

The overtime ban is also likely to affect travel plans of cricket fans for the first three days of the third Ashes Test cricket match as well as those attending the first week of Wimbledon and concertgoers at BST Hyde Park.

ASLEF general secretary Mick Whelan said: "Once again we find ourselves with no alternative but to take this action.

“We have continually come to the negotiating table in good faith, seeking to resolve the dispute.

"We don't want to inconvenience the public. We just want to see our members paid fairly during a cost-of-living crisis when inflation is running at above 10%, and to not see our terms and conditions taken away.

Dampener on sales

"It's time for the Government and the companies to think again and look for a resolution."

This comes as a recent snap poll by The Morning Advertiser revealed 75% of operators were not confident about the future of their business amid ongoing industrial rail action as well as the cost-of-living crisis.

UKH chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “Unfortunately, we’ve seen time and time again that rail strikes put a significant dampener on any sales as visitors are deterred from booking visits or eating and drinking out.

“It’s critical for the public, workers and businesses that there is a resolution in this dispute as soon as possible.

“I would urge all involved to get back round the negotiating table for constructive discussions to reach an agreement.”