A planned strike by bus drivers which could have caused chaos for commuters has been postponed.

Staff at 18 companies across the capital were set to walk out on Friday and Monday in a row over pay disparities.

Unite claims to have postponed the strikes ‘in an act of goodwill’ to facilitate talks  at conciliatory service Acas - but also claims possible foul play by TFL.

The union is requesting that TfL’s board members sign a neutrality statement vowing not to block talks aimed at resolving the dispute.

Transport for London has confirmed this afternoon the strikes will not take place at this stage and has denied  asking bus companies to sign a confidentiality agreement.

Unite claims a refusal by the operators to address pay inequality has led to pay gaps of over £3 an hour for new starters opening up, with pay varying from £9.30 to £12.34 an hour depending on the company.

Problems on overcrowded Overground lines through Waltham Forest were exacerbated with a 28 hour strike earlier this month.