Bid to avert possible bus strike

First said it wanted to avoid potential industrial action

Aberdeen bus operator First has written to more than 400 drivers in what it said was a bid to avert possible strike action.

The T&G Unite union is calling for a pay rise and members will be asked if they support action.

First managing director in Aberdeen, George Mair, said: "We remain committed to maintaining dialogue with the union to avert any industrial action."

The union said members deserved a good pay rise.

Discussions with trade union representatives have been ongoing over recent weeks.

'Pay the bills'

Mr Mair said: "There is no new money available to fund a pay increase and any pay award would need to be funded through the modernisation of terms and conditions of employment.

"We are operating in a very different environment now and the union has to realise that.

"We have explained all of this to our drivers and we hope they take that on board and encourage their union representatives to seek a positive solution for all."

T&G Unite regional organiser Tommy Campbell told the BBC Scotland news website of the letters: "It's propaganda by First, putting out letters is not going to pay the bills.

"Our members are worthy of a good pay rise."