Commuters face delays as rail workers balloted over strike action

London commuters face disruptions as workers on London's Docklands Light Railway are to be balloted for industrial action over a series of disputes, it was announced today.

The Rail Maritime and Transport union said its members at Serco Docklands, which runs the DLR, will vote over the next few weeks, over a series of issues including hours, new rosters and pensions.

The result result is due on January 11.

RMT general secretary Bob Crow said: "Management at Serco Docklands continue to show total disregard for the idea of proper negotiation and consultation with this trade union on a number of issues and have also victimised and dismissed two of our colleagues.

"Serco are treating RMT and their staff with complete contempt and this cannot be tolerated any longer. A strong yes vote in this ballot will show management we mean business and that we will not accept their disgraceful attitude towards their staff."

A wave of rail disputes has flared in recent days, threatening disruption to passengers over Christmas.

London Underground (LU) drivers voted overwhelmingly in favour of striking on Boxing Day in a row over pay, drivers on London Midland will walk out on December 23 in a separate clash over pay and conditions, while workers at Arriva Trains Wales also backed industrial action.

Staff on Southeastern Trains have started voting on whether to strike in protest at job cuts at London's Victoria and Charing Cross stations.