London Underground Drivers Set Series of 24-Hour Strikes Over New Shift Disputes

POLICY WIRE — London, UK — Drivers operating the London Underground network are prepared to launch a sequence of 24-hour walkouts over the coming months as part of an escalating dispute regarding proposed new working conditions.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) confirmed that the industrial action is scheduled to commence on November 26 and will persist into the new year.

At the heart of the conflict are new operational changes that include a four-day work week. The union argues this model will force drivers to spend more time behind the wheel, resulting in longer shifts, earlier morning starts, and later evening finishes.

Furthermore, the RMT expressed concern that altering shift patterns could lead to unpredictable and short-notice changes to schedules, disrupting existing annual leave and transfer agreements.

The union has also voiced alarms that these proposals could serve as a precursor to mass layoffs. Notably, initial rosters released for the Bakerloo line already show a significant reduction in staffing levels.

The schedule for the 24-hour disruptions is set to begin at noon on the following dates: November 26, December 17 and 19, January 4 and 6, and February 17, 23, and 25.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey criticized the move, stating, London Underground is attempting to dress up a wholesale attack on drivers’ working conditions as a voluntary four-day week.

Dempsey argued that there is nothing voluntary about a plan that demands drivers give up established protections regardless of whether they work four or five days, adding that those who do not comply face threats of being moved from their depots.

The union maintains that its members are being pressured to increase driving time, accept more erratic shifts, and abandon agreements that have been negotiated and defended over many years.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)