Wednesday 14 Dec 2016

London Chamber says Southern rail strikes damage economy and emphasis case for devolution

Commenting on this week's Southern rail strikes Chief Executive of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Colin Stanbridge said: "These strikes are highly damaging to the economy with staff being delayed or not even able to get into work at all. And at this time of year there is undoubtedly an effect on retailers and the night time economy as people may be reluctant to travel into central London.

"We would urge all parties involved to sit down and try and come to some resolution. Commuters have suffered more than enough.

"These strikes are another reminder why we really think that London bound overground trains should be run by Transport for London, and we hope this latest set of heavy inconvenience and damage to the economy will cause Chris Grayling to have a rethink."

ENDS

Media contact
Katharine McGee
T: +44 (0)20 7203 1897
M: +44 (0)7827 241528
E: kmcgee@londonchamber.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITOR:
1. London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is the capital's largest and most representative business organisation, with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs and sole traders.
2. Colin Stanbridge, chief executive is available for further comment and interview.