Tfl Tube strikes: Commuters’ underground journeys delayed and disrupted
London’s transport network faced significant disruption on Tuesday as the first of a series of 24-hour strikes by tube drivers brought services to a halt for many passengers and visitors.
Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union members began their strike at 12 noon, with another 24-hour strike planned from the same time on Thursday, causing widespread disruption throughout the week.
Transport for London (TfL) has advised passengers to check their journeys as industrial action causes major delays in the capital.
Many tube lines, including the Circle, Central and Piccadilly, suffered full or partial disruption, while serious delays were reported on other parts of the network.
The union, embroiled in a dispute over proposed changes to the working week, has planned four additional 24-hour strikes in May and June if the dispute remains unresolved.
London’s hospitality industry, including pubs and restaurants, has expressed concern that this week’s strike will seriously impact their trade. RMT official Jared Wood said union members have strong opinions on the issues at the heart of the dispute.
He told the Press Association that the debate was not just about a four-day week, but other issues were also at stake, such as length of shifts and changes to annual leave.
He said: “TfL needs to make changes to its proposals to resolve this dispute.
“There is absolute consensus among our members that we must fight against these proposals.”
Mr Wood said there was now “a lot of bad feeling” between drivers and the London Underground.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “In a normal week, pubs in London produce around £80 million GVA (gross value added) between Tuesday and Friday alone.
“Not only does this strengthen the economy, it also represents the community spirit that revolves around jobs, high streets and pubs.
“At a time when many local people are working on a knife edge due to huge costs, any significant disruption to trade will be keenly felt.
“It is vital that the overall cost of doing business falls, which is why we are working with the Government on ways to support the pub, including permanent business rates reform, reductions in beer duty and VAT, and reducing the regulatory burden.”
Some bus routes operated by Stagecoach in the capital will be affected by a separate 24-hour strike from 5am on Friday.
TfL chief operating officer Claire Mann said: “We have put forward proposals to the RMT for a four-day working week.
“This allows us to offer train operators an additional day off, whilst also aligning the London Underground with the operating models of other train operating companies, improving reliability and flexibility at no additional cost.
“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.”
