Elizabeth Line drivers to strike over pay dispute

Nearly 500 drivers on London's Elizabeth Line are set to strike on February 27, March 1, March 8, and March 10 after rejecting a 4.5% pay rise offered by their employer, MTR. The decision follows a ballot where 88% of drivers voted, with 95% in favor of industrial action, citing the company's failure to recognize their contributions as a key issue. Aslef's general secretary, Mick Whelan, emphasized the significance of the drivers in the line's success, while MTR's managing director expressed disappointment over the rejection of the pay offer, which would have kept salaries among the highest in the industry. The ongoing dispute is further complicated by MTR's impending contract termination with Transport for London, set for May, when the operation will transition to a new consortium. Union officials have indicated that strikes are a last resort, urging MTR to return to negotiations. The strikes are expected to disrupt services across the Elizabeth line, affecting commuters significantly.