A UNION leader claims his offer to talk to a bus company boss about the discontent of his members was turned down.

Gary Cook of the GMB union asked to meet Martin Harris, director of Brighton and Hove Bus Company, to discuss concerns of staff about pay, changes to rotas and shifts and the support network available to drivers.

He said he was disappointed by the lack of response.

He said: “We have urged Mr Harris to sit down with us. We are more than happy to try and resolve the problems.”

Mr Harris said the firm has a recognition agreement with the UNITE union, which most of its staff belong to, and did not have to talk to the GMB.

He added: “We have a recognition agreement with the GMB in respect of individuals but not for collective bargaining purposes.”

The news came after drivers claimed morale was at “rock bottom” at the company after cutbacks and job losses.