Train drivers are edging ‘very close’ to strike action, union Aslef says.
Drivers working at eight rail companies voted this week for industrial action in a pay dispute.
Mick Whelan, General Secretary of Aslef, told the BBC that strikes could begin within weeks.
Unions need to give 14 days’ notice for a walkout.
“We don’t do this lightly. We see it as a sign of failure when we do have to do it,” Whelan said
Rail companies potentially affected include Arriva Rail London, West Midlands Trains, TransPennine Express and Great Western.
The Department for Transport slammed the union.
“It is very disappointing that rather than commit to serious dialogue with the industry, Aslef are first seeking to cause further misery to passengers.”
It follows three days of strikes last month when 40,000 members of the RMT union downed tools.
Members of the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association also voted for strike action on Monday over a separate dispute.
