Tram strikes end after pay deal is struck

Strikes by London Trams engineers have ended after an improved pay deal was agreed.

The workers were in dispute over significant pay disparities between themselves and colleagues on the London Underground performing the same role.

Following negotiations with Transport for London (TfL), an improved offer was put forward that helped to substantially close the pay disparity, with some London Trams engineering grades seeing an uplift of up to 20 per cent.

The deal, which was accepted in a ballot by the engineers, also resolved long running contractual and holiday pay issues.

The Unite union general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Congratulations to the London Trams engineers who secured this deal by standing together in their union and taking strike action. This is yet another example of how Unite’s laser-like focus on defending and improving jobs, pay and conditions is delivering for our members.”

The workers, who are crucial to the running of London Trams, initially took strike action in March, before escalating the dispute in late June. All industrial action has now ceased and the workers have returned to work as normal.

Unite regional officer Steve Stockwell said:“This deal shows the power of belonging to a union. Those wanting better wages and working lives should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join as well.”

TrL has been contacted for comment.

Pictured top: Tram engineers hail the new deal (Picture: Unite)