In an ongoing dispute over pay, London Underground staff are preparing to go on strike for four consecutive days later this month, with no signs of a resolution. The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) recently announced the walkouts in addition to the fight for improved pensions and working conditions. A significant number of jobs are expected to be cut, affecting Tube stations and maintenance personnel. Aslef union, which represents Tube drivers, also declared their intention to strike separately over pensions and working conditions on July 26 and 28.
To provide comprehensive information on the dispute and its impact on passengers, read on:
When is the strike action taking place?
The RMT has scheduled the following strike days for London Underground workers:
- Sunday 23 July
- Tuesday 25 July
- Wednesday 26 July
- Thursday 27 July
- Friday 28 July
No strike is planned for Monday, July 24.
Which lines will be affected?
Although over 10,000 workers are eligible to strike, the impact will vary depending on the sections of the Tube network and the worker grades on different days. The specific lines affected on each day have not been announced yet.
What have union bosses said?
Mick Lynch, general secretary of the RMT, states the action will “shut down the tube” and highlight the significance of these crucial workers. He emphasizes that the proposed plans by Transport for London (TfL) to cut jobs and attack member pensions are simply unacceptable.
Regarding the Aslef union joining the strike, Finn Brennan, Aslef’s full-time organiser on London Underground, explains that the changes would make it challenging for drivers to maintain a work-life balance. He adds that the actions of London Underground management in trying to impose detrimental changes despite union opposition have forced them to take action to protect their rights and conditions.
How has Transport for London responded?
Glynn Barton, chief operating officer of TfL, expresses disappointment in the RMT’s decision to strike. He urges the union to reconsider and engage in constructive discussions to find a resolution. TfL also states that there are no current proposals to alter pension arrangements, but they are exploring various options to avoid job losses and excessive work hours for employees.
The RMT has also announced that 20,000 rail workers across the UK will go on strike in July.
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