Tube strike will hit hospitality businesses, says BHA
London Underground strikes planned for February may hit hospitality and tourism businesses, the British Hospitality Association has said.
The RMT (Rail Maritime and Transport union) has confirmed industrial action for tube workers on Tuesday 4, Wednesday 5, Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 February, after 77% of RMT union members who voted backed the move.
The BHA has voiced concerns that it will be detrimental to businesses.
It said that London's reliance on the network for transport and tourism meant that sites such as restaurants, tourism venues and quick food outlets would see an immediate negative impact if the trains stopped running.
The RMT is planning the strikes in protest at Transport for London's plans to close ticket offices in favour of only having staff on platforms, in a move that will reportedly save £50m but also cut 750 jobs.
BHA deputy chief executive Martin Couchman said: "Proposing to hold such action close to busy calendar dates such as Valentine's Day will be a real concern for our hospitality members.
"We hope that the RMT and industry chiefs will be able to find a swift resolution which avoids strike action and which does not impact negatively on tourists and commuters."
The British Hospitality Association helps champion the interests of any business and staff involved in hospitality, such as hotels, restaurants and tourism attractions.
It regularly campaigns to improve job prospects in the industry, such as the "Big Hospitality Conversation", which it launched last year with charity Springboard UK and the Prince of Wales's Charity Business in the Community, to encourage employers to pledge jobs for young, unemployed people.
BHA targets restaurants and caterers for "Big Conversation" jobs push >>