DLR Workers To Strike

16 January 2014, 19:00 | Updated: 16 January 2014, 19:03

Workers on the DLR have voted to go on strike in action that could take place at the same time as a strike on the Tube.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union said its members backed industrial action by 9-1, over a series of issues including this year's pay award, the use of agency staff and disciplinary procedures.

The union's executive will discuss its next move and is likely to consider co-ordinating action with planned strikes on the Tube in February 2014 in a separate dispute over ticket office closures.

RMT general secretary Bob Crow said: "Our members have shown the level of anger across the railway in this overwhelming mandate for action.

"RMT will not tolerate the cavalier abuse of procedures, agreements and pay negotiations which has led to the complete breakdown of industrial relations on this vital section of the London transport operation.

"Transport for London, and their contractors Serco, need to recognise just what an essential service the DLR staff provide to Londoners and it is about time they were treated with the respect that they deserve."

The union has around 500 members at DLR and reported a 70% turnout in the strike ballot.

RMT members on London Underground are set to stage two 48-hour walkouts from February 4 and 11 over ticket office closures.

Kevin Thomas, managing director of Serco Docklands, said: "We are very disappointed by the RMT's announcement to take industrial action at Serco Docklands.

"We are working hard to resolve the issues that have been raised recently by the RMT. Our priority remains to continue discussions with employees and union representatives to resolve the dispute and avoid any unnecessary industrial action and service disruption to our passengers."