Union warns over Games Tube plan

The mayor wants Tube services round-the-clock during the 2012 Games

A union has said "huge difficulties" and safety issues need to be addressed to make 24-hour Tube services possible during the 2012 Olympics in London.

The Rail Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) criticised Mayor Boris Johnson for announcing the plan without "seeking even preliminary talks".

Essential maintenance work and safety issues need attention, the RMT said.

The mayor's office said Transport for London would work closely with staff and unions to implement the scheme.

'Great support'

RMT general secretary Bob Crow said: "RMT supports the 2012 Olympics and for two years we have been seeking an early settlement that takes account of the substantial additional burdens and responsibilities that London's transport workers will have placed upon them.

"We are not opposed to 24-hour running during the games in principle, but simply announcing it will not make it happen, and so far there has not been a word from the new mayor seeking even preliminary talks.

"There are huge difficulties to overcome and obvious safety implications, not least around ensuring that essential maintenance work is done," Mr Crow said.

A spokesperson for the mayor said: "The 2012 opening and closing ceremonies will be the focus of tremendous celebrations in the capital.

"And we believe running the Tube for 24 hours on those occasions will be of great support for the thousands of Londoners and visitors from around the world that will be in the city on those days.

"Transport for London will work closely with its staff and unions on plans to put on these special services; and we're sure the RMT will want to support all efforts to make London 2012 a success."

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