Tube strikes planned from March to May in row over four-day working week

"London Underground is trying to force through major changes to working patterns that have already been rejected by our members. We are clear that these proposals raise serious concerns around fatigue, safety and work-life balance. Despite our best efforts over many months, no satisfactory outcome has been reached so we have no choice but to call strike dates."

"The union says that Transport for London is imposing a 4-day week, which the unions have long wanted, but without a cut in working hours, as TfL wants changes to be cost-neutral. That makes the shift duration longer per day, which the union says leads to unacceptable working time arrangements, transfer and allocation processes."

"If the tube strikes go ahead, they are likely to have a fairly serious effect on the London Underground as the RMT represents around half of the tube drivers. In addition, the strikes have been staggered to maximise disruption, running from lunchtime to lunchtime."

The RMT Union has announced industrial action on the London Underground over the next three months in response to Transport for London's proposed four-day working week. While TfL wants the change to be cost-neutral, the union opposes implementing a four-day week without reducing working hours, as this results in longer daily shifts. The RMT raises concerns about driver fatigue, work-life balance, and problematic transfer and allocation processes. The strikes are scheduled across six dates from March to May, running from noon to noon to maximize disruption. The RMT represents approximately half of tube drivers, making the strikes potentially serious for London Underground services. However, the rival drivers' union Aslef has accepted the proposed changes. The strikes will not affect Elizabeth line or Overground services.

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