London bus drivers that start at a new company will remain on the same pay grade instead of being put on the lowest wage as if starting their careers, under a landmark deal announced by the mayor today.
The 'License for London' arrangement was brokered by mayor Sadiq Khan, Unite the union, Transport for London (TfL) and private bus companies.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: 'I’m delighted we’re now addressing a situation where a driver with the same level of knowledge, skill and experience could get paid significantly less, simply for working on a different route or moving company.
'Today’s announcement shows the real progress you can make when you talk and engage constructively with workers and trade unions, rather than looking for confrontation. It is this same approach that has led to a nearly 65% reduction in the number of days lost to strikes on the London Underground compared to my predecessor as mayor.'
The news follows on from City Hall securing a new starter minimum wage of £23,000 for drivers working across all of London’s bus companies, which will rise in line with inflation.
The new Licence will be held by the employer, and made available to a driver who is applying for a job at another company.
It will hold a range of information above and beyond a standard reference, including:
- Length of Service with the current employer
- Length of service for LfL (i.e. including any service accrued at any previous employers)
- Relevant qualifications
- Training (including CPC)
- Industry-related commendations
- Industry-related awards (e.g. ROSPA safe driving awards)
Drivers who join a bus company under the new scheme will still need to work a probationary period, and their service will not technically be seen as continuous as far as employment law is concerned.
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