Key Highlights
- RMT union announces a series of 24-hour strikes by Tube drivers over four-day working week.
- The first strike is scheduled from March 24-25 with several more planned in the following weeks.
- TfL maintains that changes will be voluntary and improve reliability without reducing contractual hours.
- RMT members voted in favor of industrial action last month due to concerns about shift lengths and fatigue.
The Battle for London’s Workweek
London Tube drivers are gearing up for a series of strikes over the coming months, with RMT union general secretary Eddie Dempsey warning that “London Underground is trying to force through major changes to working patterns that have already been rejected by our members.”
A Voluntary Change with Skepticism
While Transport for London (TfL) has stated the proposed four-day workweek will be voluntary and won’t cut contractual hours, RMT members are not convinced. According to Dempsey, “Despite our best efforts over many months, no satisfactory outcome has been reached so we have no choice but to call strike dates.”
Historic Strife in London Transport
The last Tube strike saw a significant disruption, with severe consequences for commuters. London Underground drivers went on strike in September due to pay and conditions disputes, causing major disruptions across the capital’s transport network.
The Union’s Stance
RMT members are particularly concerned about shift lengths, unacceptable working time arrangements, and the possible impact of fatigue on safety. Dempsey emphasized that there is still time for TfL to come up with a workable solution but warned that “we will take strike action if we cannot get a negotiated settlement.”
You might think this is new, but… London’s transport workers have faced these challenges before. The RMT union has been vocal in its opposition to changes that they see as detrimental to their members’ health and welfare.
