RMT calls eight London Tube strikes over disputed four-day week

London Underground drivers represented by the RMT union have called eight 24-hour strikes in a dispute over Transport for London’s proposed changes to working arrangements. The action begins at noon on 26 November and includes walkouts on 17 and 19 December, two dates expected to affect Christmas shopping and travel. Further strikes are scheduled for 4 and 6 January, and 17 and 23 February, with another planned for 25 February.

The Guardian described the action as eight strikes spread over 16 days, while the BBC listed the same dates as a series of 24-hour stoppages. The union’s announcement follows earlier walkouts in the spring that caused substantial disruption, with some Underground lines closed. The central dispute concerns TfL’s plan to offer a four-day working week to Tube drivers.

The RMT says the proposal would require longer driving periods, less predictable shifts and the abandonment of agreements built up over many years. General secretary Eddie Dempsey characterised the plan as an attempt to extract more work from fewer drivers rather than a genuine improvement in work-life balance. The union also says the changes could lead to hundreds of job losses.

The RMT told the Guardian it had not received sufficient guarantees protecting drivers who wished to remain on a five-day arrangement. Its concerns include shift timing, certainty and the effect of the proposed contractual changes. TfL disputes that interpretation.

Nick Dent, the director of customer operations for London Underground, said the four-day pattern would be voluntary and that drivers choosing to keep a five-day week would be guaranteed the same depot. TfL says the proposal would provide a more efficient and reliable service while reducing the time drivers spend at work. Under TfL’s description, most drivers’ weekly hours would fall from 36 to 35.

Contractual hours would remain unchanged because paid meal breaks would be introduced, meaning drivers would work longer days but fewer days overall. The RMT instead wants a 32-hour week over four days with no reduction in pay. The Aslef union, which represents many other Tube drivers, welcomed the proposal and said it was surprised by the RMT action.

Aslef organiser Finn Brennan said the four-day option would give drivers 35 additional days off each year, based on a 34-hour roster, while allowing staff who preferred five days to remain on that pattern without detriment. About half of Underground drivers belong to the RMT, according to the BBC. Business groups have warned of economic disruption before Christmas, when retailers, hospitality businesses and visitors depend heavily on the network.

London Chamber of Commerce chief Karim Fatehi and BusinessLDN both urged the sides to reach an agreement, while TfL asked the RMT to put its proposal to members.