“The approach of TfL is not one which leads to industrial peace and will infuriate our members who want to see a negotiated settlement to this avoidable dispute,” said Eddie Dempsey of the RMT union.
As of early Tuesday, Transport for London (TfL) is facing significant disruptions. The RMT union has announced a strike by London Underground drivers.
The strike will occur in two 24-hour tranches, starting at midday on Tuesday and again on Thursday. Just under half of London’s tube drivers are expected to participate.
Some lines, including the Piccadilly, Waterloo & City, and Circle lines, are anticipated to have no service during these periods.
TfL is stepping up efforts to cut employee absence as part of a government initiative. The overall sickness rate at TfL stands at 6.3%, accounting for almost 418,885 sick days.
Dr Sam Phillips emphasized the need for balance in addressing absence rates without compromising employee well-being: “There was a ‘fine balance’ between improving absence rates ‘but not at the cost of people feeling that they’re coming to work when they shouldn’t be.'”
In contrast, TfL’s proposals for a four-day week have garnered support from the Aslef drivers’ union but faced opposition from the RMT.
TfL’s chief operating officer Claire Mann stated, “Everyone has the right to travel around London without facing discrimination, and we stand united against hate in all its forms.” This statement follows recent incidents of antisemitism that TfL aims to address.
The last tube strike occurred in September 2025, indicating ongoing tensions between management and unions over working conditions.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further negotiations or potential resolutions ahead of the strikes.