Transport for London (TFL) staff will begin strike action today (Tuesday 21 April) over a dispute regarding a voluntary proposal to allow train operators to move to a compressed four-day week.
The compressed four-day week proposal, which is being currently trialled voluntarily on the Bakerloo line, would see the working week of most drivers reduced from 36 hours to 35 hours.
TFL stated that contracted hours would remain the same, and that the changes would help enable a modern and efficient service at no additional cost.
The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) said the longer days risked driver fatigue and suggested a 32-hour four-day week for the same salary.
Tube services will reduce from mid‑morning onwards, as strike action will begin at midday. It will run for 24 hours and is set to be followed by a second 24-hour period starting on Thursday and ending at midday on Friday.
Claire Mann, chief operating officer at TFL, said: “We have set out proposals to the RMT for a four-day working week. This allows us to offer train operators an additional day off, while at the same time bringing London Underground in line with the working patterns of other train operating companies, improving reliability and flexibility at no additional cost.
“The changes would be voluntary, there would be no reduction in contractual hours as paid meal breaks would be introduced, and those who wish to continue a five-day working week pattern would be able to do so. We urge the RMT to call off this action, which will disrupt Londoners, and continue to engage with us.”
Eddie Dempsey, general secretary at RMT, added: “We have approached negotiations with TFL in good faith throughout this entire process. But despite our best efforts, TFL seem unwilling to make any concessions in a bid to avert strike action.
“This is extremely disappointing and has baffled our negotiators. 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.”
