‘Two Out Of 12 Is A Start’: Keith Prince Pushes For More Rights For London Bus Drivers
The Havering and Redbridge Assembly Member says improvements to cab temperatures must be followed by wider welfare protections.
Keith Prince has welcomed what he describes as progress on two parts of his Bus Drivers’ Bill of Rights, but says ten further protections still need to be delivered.
The Reform UK London Assembly Member for Havering and Redbridge issued the statement after an agreement was announced to fit air conditioning in all London bus cabs by the end of May 2027.
Mr Prince’s proposed Bill of Rights contains 12 principles covering safe schedules, rest breaks, maintained vehicles, toilet facilities, safety reporting, sick leave, training and working heating and cooling.
The London Assembly unanimously backed a motion supporting the principles on 2 July. The motion called on the Mayor and Transport for London to work with bus operators, trade unions and driver representatives to improve conditions.
Mr Prince said: “This is a victory for London’s bus drivers and shows that the campaign is making a real difference.”
He added: “I am pleased that the Mayor has listened and accepted two of the rights we have been calling for. That is genuine progress and something we should welcome. But this cannot be where the process ends. Two out of 12 is a start, not the finished job.”
Among the remaining proposals are protection for drivers raising safety concerns, decent rest facilities, safe working schedules and rules preventing unnecessary messages while a vehicle is moving.
The Mayor previously said many aspects of the proposed rights were already covered by agreements, legislation or existing initiatives. TfL has also said it is working with operators and Unite on driver safety, security and wellbeing.
The full Assembly motion can be read on the London City Hall website.
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