London Assembly unanimously backs Bus Driver Bill of Rights after extreme heat concerns
London Assembly members have unanimously backed calls for a new Bus Driver Bill of Rights, following growing concerns over working conditions during recent heatwaves and wider issues affecting drivers across the capital. The motion, introduced at City Hall by Reform UK Assembly Member Keith Prince, received the support of all 21 Assembly members present. It proposes a set of principles designed to improve welfare, safety, and working conditions for London’s bus drivers.
Among the measures included in the Bus Driver Bill of Rights are guaranteed access to toilets on every bus route, regular rest breaks, protection from forced overtime, the right to report safety concerns without fear of disciplinary action, and properly functioning heating and air-cooling systems inside drivers’ cabs.
The debate comes after recent heatwaves raised concerns about temperatures inside buses. Claims were made that some driver cabs reached 50C, while reports also highlighted faults with air-cooling systems on parts of the fleet.
Speaking during the debate, Keith Prince said bus drivers had been forced to work in unacceptable conditions, adding that protecting driver welfare was also essential for passenger safety by helping reduce fatigue and the risk of human error.
The issue has also become part of an ongoing dispute between Unite the union, Transport for London, and several bus operators. Unite has criticised Arriva over cooling systems and says more needs to be done to protect drivers during periods of extreme heat.
Last week, Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan said drivers who believe conditions inside their vehicles are too hot should not feel pressured to continue driving and would not be penalised for raising safety concerns.
Transport for London said it continues to work with bus operators to improve driver welfare, including ensuring fair work schedules, safe vehicles and access to appropriate facilities. TfL also said concerns raised by drivers are fully investigated.
Arriva said every London bus in its fleet has a cab air-cooling system installed and that it is working with manufacturers to explore further improvements, while acknowledging that upgrading older vehicles is not always straightforward.
The issue remains under national attention as almost 2,000 bus drivers across north and east London are currently being balloted over possible strike action linked to heatwave working conditions.
For more London transport news, City Hall updates and public service developments, follow EyeOnLondon.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
