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National Express offer 16.2% to drivers in new deal

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Striking bus drivers have been offered 16.2% by National Express in an attempt to end the industrial action which has drawn the region to a halt. The company has released a statement confirming Unite will recommend their members accept the deal.

The LDRS has seen a letter addressed to Unite members by National Express UK CEO Tom Staples, notifying them of the new deal.

National Express have offered a 16.2% increase on all current driver pay rates, up from the 14.3% which was turned down in a ballot with a 71% turn out.

The firm have also committed to:

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National Express has a shortage of around 300 drivers, Unite claims, which is impacting regular services. The trade union says buses that should be on the road are being stranded in depots.

National Express have offered striking bus strikers 16.2%. Credit: LDRS. (Image: LDRS.)

Meanwhile, passengers have taken to social media to express their anger about public transport. With e-scooters pulled out of service and continuous train strikes, many are questioning why public transport has become so ineffective in the city.

Around 3,100 drivers in - but not limited to - Perry Barr, Yardley, Acocks Green, and Wolverhampton - are on strike. Until an agreement is reached, the strikes will continue indefinitely, according to Unite.

Unite national lead officer Onay Kasab said: "Following negotiations today, National Express put forward an improved pay offer which will be put to our members in a vote over the next two days. Unite will be making no further comments during the ballot period."

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