Football fans across the UK are set to face major disruptions today as train drivers from sixteen companies go on strike. Supporter attendance at Premier League and EFL matches could be disrupted due to the industrial action. In addition, fans making their way to the Tory party conference in Manchester will also be affected tomorrow and on Wednesday, which is a full strike day.
Full strike day at party conference
The rally taking place at the Tory party conference will be hit by the strike action, causing potential logistical problems for those attending and organizing the event.
London Underground brought to a halt
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union members are not only impacting the rail services but also aiming to halt operations on the London Underground on Wednesday and Friday. This move is expected to add to the travel chaos experienced by commuters and football fans alike.
Train drivers demanding pay rise
The strike action is a result of train drivers' demands for a pay rise. Mick Whelan, the leader of the Aslef union, stated that train drivers have not received a pay increase in four years. Whelan argued that it is unfair that while prices have soared during this time, train drivers' salaries have remained stagnant. Their main demand is the ability to afford what they could four years ago.
Government's offer
In response to the strike action, the Department for Transport has claimed that its offer would raise train drivers' salaries from £60,000 to £65,000 per year. The government argues that this amount is double the average UK salary and highlights that many drivers also boost their income by working overtime.
As the strike action progresses, football fans and commuters across the country will undoubtedly be anticipating the travel chaos that lies ahead.
