Londoners are bracing for another round of Tube strikes this week, following failed talks between the RMT union and London Underground management. The industrial action, set to disrupt services from Tuesday, May 19, stems from a dispute over proposals to condense drivers' five-day working week into four days.
Strike Schedule and Affected Lines
The first strike will run from 12:00 pm on Tuesday, May 19, until midday on Wednesday, May 20. The second walkout will take place from midday on Thursday, May 21, until midday on Friday, May 22. The entire Circle and Piccadilly lines will be suspended, along with the Central Line between White City and Liverpool Street. While services are expected on other lines, they will be less frequent and likely very busy. The Elizabeth Line, DLR, London Overground, and trams will not be affected, but may experience increased passenger numbers.
Background of the Dispute
The strike involves Tube drivers who are members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT). TfL has proposed a four-day working week, which would require longer shifts but give drivers an extra day off. The RMT opposes the change, arguing it would negatively impact drivers' welfare. Jared Wood, RMT's London lead, told Metro that under the proposal, a driver could start at 3:45 am, drive for over five hours without a break, then take a 30-minute break and drive for up to 9.5 hours total.
TfL has stated that it would never compromise safety and that the shift patterns would align with those of national rail operators. Claire Mann, TfL's chief operating officer, expressed disappointment at the strike action, emphasizing that the four-day week proposal is voluntary and designed to improve work-life balance. She noted that drivers who prefer the current five-day pattern can remain on it. TfL also highlighted that the other Tube drivers' union, Aslef, has accepted the proposal.
Passengers are advised to check before traveling and allow extra time for their journeys. TfL urges the RMT to continue negotiations to resolve the dispute.
