The RMT union called strike action on the Northern Line today (December 1) following one of its members being dismissed by London Underground after failing an alcohol breath test.
The strike has received little support from RMT members (only 45 of the 106 balloted voted for strike action), meaning that the Northern line is still running a good service during the rush hour.
“We have been clear from the outset that the RMT had absolutely no basis to take strike action after one of their members was dismissed for failing an alcohol breath test. This strike is inappropriate and will achieve nothing whatsoever,” Phil Hufton, LU’s chief operating officer said.
Extra trains are operating on the Wimbledon branch of the District Line to help customers in south London who may find it easier travelling from Wimbledon, and extra buses are operating on some routes.
Anon - 03/12/2014 12:32
I have to agree with the lack of support on this one. All rail staff know the requirement to comply with the industrys drug and alcohol policy. I am very suprised and disappointed with the RMT for supporting a safety critical individual who was dismissed on the grounds of failing a breath test. If the same individual had been driving a car they would hage lost their license, so why would the railway be any different?. What would the unions reaction have been if that same individual had been involved in a safety of the line incident? Come on RMT buck your ideas up. The only grounds for this dispute is local and personal favouritism. You have far more serious battles on your hands with the threat to services and jobs across the network. Dont tarnish your reputation by supporting this.