London faces dual teachers' strike

Teachers walked out over the allowances in March

Some London schools could close twice in November as two unions prepare to ballot members for strike action over cost-of-living allowances.

The Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) has called for the vote on 5 November, a move which could lead to a one-day stoppage at the end of that month.

The National Union of Teachers has already staged a one-day strike over London allowances in March.

Last month it announced a ballot on whether to go ahead with a second walkout on 14 November.

Teaching recruitment problems in London are largely the result of the cost of living and the government has yet to wake up to the realities of the situation

Gerald Imison, ATL

Both unions believe the inner London allowance should nearly double from £3,105 to £6,000 a year.

ATL deputy general secretary Gerald Imison said: "Teaching recruitment problems in London are largely the result of the cost of living and the government has yet to wake up to the realities of the situation.

"Hopefully, this will give them the kick they need."

It will be the new Charles Clarke's first taste of industrial action by teachers since he was appointed education secretary on Thursday.

Allowances up

The Department for Education and Skills said newly qualified teachers in London started on £20,733 a year.

Allowances had gone up 3.5% and experienced inner London teachers who passed the performance pay test have seen their pay increase 31% since 1997, said a spokesman.

"We will continue to deliver on pay because we value the work teachers do.

"Industrial action does nothing but damage to the education of children," he added.