Planned strikes by workers at the Lea Interchange Bus Company have been postponed to allow further negotiations to take place, reports Marco Marcelline

Industrial action by around 350 bus drivers in Leyton today (6th February) and tomorrow (7th February) has been called off.

Workers at the company, part of Stagecoach, were due to walk out in a dispute around the victimisation and bullying of Unite reps.

However, this has now been postponed to allow further discussions between Unite and the employer, Stagecoach. Further strikes on Friday, 20th and Saturday, 21st February have also been called off.

Unite regional officer John Murphy said: “Unite has decided to allow the employer more time to resolve issues, so strike action has been called off as negotiations continue.”

Bus drivers at a Leyton depot had previously went on strike in December and on Tuesday, 9th January and Wednesday, 10th January.

Drivers allege that one of its Unite reps were suspended, later dismissed and then reinstated, while another was suspended on “trumped-up charges”.

The union believes these reps are being targeted for participating in trade union activities, in a violation of employment law.

Amid a 98% vote by Unite members to strike, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite will never stand idly by when an employer uses union busting and bullying tactics.”

Bus drivers on strike last month, Credit: Unite the union

The strike would have significantly disrupted a total of 13 routes that run across East London, including the 97 which runs between Chingford and Stratford, and the W13 from Leyton Mills to Woodford.

A Stagecoach spokesperson told the Echo that it “strongly refutes” Unite’s allegations of union victimisation and bullying, while also saying the dispute is “not about pay”.

They said: “We recognise the important role of our recognised trade union and would not tolerate victimisation of union representatives for carrying out their duties.

“Any disciplinary matters are handled through long-established, trade-union-agreed procedures that apply equally to all employees and include the right to representation and appeal.

“We have made extensive efforts to resolve this matter, including agreeing to independent mediation, and remain open to further dialogue.

“Our priority is to do everything possible to minimise disruption and continue providing a safe, reliable service for our customers during the strike action.”

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