The RMT trade union has demanded its members, including tube drivers on £70k per year, are prioritised for social housing in London, according to reports. It is one of 12 pay and working conditions demands made by RMT bosses during negotiations with the Transport for London (TFL), The Telegraph reports.
In a document, seen by the broadsheet, the union said: “We call on TfL to seek an agreement with the mayor to provide greater access to social housing for LUL staff, who are essential workers for London and its economy.” The union – which represents London Underground drivers and other TfL staff – is also reportedly calling for an above-inflation pay increase of more than 3.6 per cent. The pay demand would see the salary of tube drivers rise to almost £73,000 a year up from £70,182.
The union also reportedly wants the working week to be shortened from 35 hours to 32 hours.
An RMT spokesman told The Telegraph: “The overwhelming majority of the thousands of members we represent at all grades within London Underground earn far less than £70,000 a year.
“Social housing should be a right for all working people which is why it must be significantly expanded to help solve the London housing crisis.”
A TfL spokesperson said: “We are soon beginning discussions with our trade unions over a pay deal on London Underground.
“We have received submissions from all of our unions ahead of those discussions, and look forward to reaching an affordable agreement that is both fair for our colleagues and good for London.”
A spokesperson for London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan said: “We look forward to TfL and the trade unions working together to reach an affordable agreement that is fair for all and good for London”.
Express.co.uk has contacted RMT for further information.