London Underground drivers announce strikes in March, April and May | UK | News
London Underground drivers announced a series of strikes in March, April and May due to disagreement over proposed changes to working patterns.
The strikes, organized by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), will include seven 24-hour strikes from midday until 11.59am the next day. The action opposes Transport for London’s (TfL) plans to introduce a four-day working week for drivers by compressing hours into four long shifts rather than the current five-day model.
The planned strike dates are as follows:
26 March – 27 March (Thursday 12:00 – Friday 11:59)
21 April – 22 April (Tuesday 12:00 – Wednesday 11:59)
23 April – 24 April (Thursday 12:00 – Friday 11:59)
19 May – 20 May (Tuesday 12:00 – Wednesday 11:59)
21 May – 22 May (Thursday 12:00 – Friday 11:59)
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said the union had been raising concerns about the proposals for months but had been unable to reach an agreement with management.
“London Underground is seeking to make major changes to working patterns that have already been rejected by our members,” he said.
“We recognize that these recommendations raise serious concerns about fatigue, safety and work-life balance.
“Despite our best efforts over many months, we have not been able to achieve a satisfactory outcome, so we have no choice but to announce strike dates.
“There is still time for London Underground to find a workable solution, but if we cannot reach a negotiated solution we will go on strike.”
TfL said the offers would initially only apply to drivers on the Bakerloo line and would be voluntary.
A spokesman said: “Last year we shared our proposal for a four-day working week with our unions and have been in communication with them about how best to implement the new working model.
“The changes will be voluntary, there will be no reduction in contract hours and those who wish to continue the five-day working week will be able to do so.”
The transport authority said the changes would help improve reliability and allow it to deploy drivers more flexibly without increasing costs.
Business leaders have warned that disruption could impact London’s economy if strikes continue.
BusinessLDN deputy chief executive Muniya Barua said: “The prospect of further strikes in the coming months will be very frustrating for Londoners and visitors who rely on the tube to get around the city.
“This will be of particular concern for businesses that rely on people visiting in person, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, retail and culture.
“We call on both sides to urgently reach an agreement and refrain from these damaging attacks.”
