Unite, which represents tens of thousands of bus workers, has strongly welcomed a statement by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, concerning the capital’s bus drivers, who have been sweltering in their cabs during the heatwave.

Speaking to LBC Mayor Khan said: "I don’t want any bus driver to work in conditions that are unacceptable in London in 2026.

"Let me speak directly to bus drivers - if your cabin is too hot, I’ve given TFL permission, and told the bus operators, you must not be driving that bus. 

"Please think about your personal safety, please think about your passengers - you will not be penalised.”

The Mayor made his commitment to drivers following Unite’s warnings about unacceptable temperatures in bus cabs. Unite has highlighted how many London buses don’t have functioning air conditioning or have inefficient air cooling systems, resulting in cab temperatures frequently exceeding 40 degrees. Unite has also issued information to all its bus drivers explaining how they can legally refuse to drive an overheated bus. 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “It is totally unacceptable for any bus driver to be put at risk due to high temperatures. Sadiq Khan has said the right thing here. It is now essential that bus operators listen to him and ensure that their workers and passengers are safe during this sweltering weather.”

Unite is now calling for the formation of a taskforce between itself, Transport for London (TfL) and the bus operators to find a permanent solution, to boiling temperatures in the summer and freezing conditions in the winter. This is particularly important given the growing increase in extreme weather events.

Unite regional officer Nadine Edwards said: “The mayor has provided London drivers with some reassurances. Unite will ensure that the Mayor’s pledge to bus workers is fully upheld. We now need long term solutions to end the misery and danger bus drivers are facing working in London.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications advisor Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org