Talks held to avert Tube strike

The strikes are being called in a row over safety

Talks aimed at averting a 72-hour strike by Tube workers in a row over safety will take place this week.

Members of the Rail Maritime and Transport (RMT) union and the Transport Salaried Staffs Association plan to strike from 1830 BST on 6 April.

The unions fear plans to close 40 ticket offices and reduce opening hours will put safety standards at risk.

But London Underground (LU) said the issue had nothing to do with safety and that no jobs were at risk.

'Confusion and chaos'

The unions have concerns about staff working alone and LU's plans to introduce "mobile supervisors" at stations.

An LU spokesperson said all the issues raised by the unions were being addressed and claimed that "significant progress" had already been made.

A RMT spokesperson said: "Until LU have agreed to our demands the strike will go ahead, however we are hoping that the talks will be successful."

Tens of thousands of supporters of Cardiff City and Barnsley football clubs attending this Sunday's FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium have been warned of "confusion and chaos" as they will have to find alternative ways of returning home after the Wembley game.

The talks are set to continue over the next few days.

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