London Underground Strikes: RMT Suspends Action, But ASLEF Still Set to Walk Out - Here's What You Need to Know | World Briefings
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London Underground Strikes: RMT Suspends Action, But ASLEF Still Set to Walk Out - Here's What You Need to Know

4 November, 2024 - 8:05AM
London Underground Strikes: RMT Suspends Action, But ASLEF Still Set to Walk Out - Here's What You Need to Know
Credit: telegraph.co.uk

Planned strikes by London Underground workers in the RMT have been suspended at the last minute - but other Tube workers for ASLEF are still set to walk out over the next two weeks.

The strikes will take place from 1 to 16 November after members of the train drivers' union ASLEF rejected a pay offer from Transport for London (TfL).

London Underground drivers, instructors, managers, and engineers who are ASLEF members will strike and carry out overtime bans between 1 and 16 November.

Tube staff for the RMT were set to join them, but a spokesperson said the union had suspended their strike action the day they were meant to start after "intense negotiations with London Underground management and a significantly improved offer".

Strike Dates and Expected Disruption

Here are the dates where disruption is expected:

  • 1 November

    • Engineering drivers from ASLEF will strike for 24 hours from 6pm, and an overtime ban will be in place for them until 8 November.
  • 2 November

    • Engineering drivers continue to strike until 5.59pm, and their overtime ban continues.
  • 3 November

    • Engineering drivers' overtime ban continues.

    • ASLEF managers will not work any overtime from the start of 3 November until 16 November.

  • 4 November

    • Engineering drivers' overtime ban continues.

    • Manager overtime ban continues.

  • 5 November

    • Engineering drivers' overtime ban continues.

    • Manager overtime ban continues.

  • 6 November

    • Engineering drivers' overtime ban continues.

    • Manager overtime ban continues.

  • 7 November

    • ASLEF train operators, instructors and managers to strike all day in a move TfL says will lead to "little to no service".

    • Engineering drivers' overtime ban continues.

    • Manager overtime ban continues.

  • 8 November

    • Engineering drivers' overtime ban continues until 11.59pm.

    • Manager overtime ban continues.

  • 9 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues.
  • 10 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues.
  • 11 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues.
  • 12 November

    • ASLEF train operators, instructors and managers to strike all day in a move TfL says will lead to "little to no service".

    • Manager overtime ban continues.

  • 13 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues.
  • 14 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues.
  • 15 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues.
  • 16 November

    • Manager overtime ban continues until 11.59pm.

What Lines Will Be Affected?

TfL has not specified which lines will be affected, only saying to expect "severe disruption" on some days if the strikes go ahead.

It advises planning ahead before you travel by using its journey planner and status update page.

Why Are ASLEF Members Striking?

ASLEF members voted overwhelmingly for the action, with 98.8% wanting strike action, with a 68% turnout.

Finn Brennan, ASLEF's London Underground organiser, said: "We don't want to go on strike - we don't want to make travelling in and around the capital more difficult for passengers and we don't want to lose a day's pay - but we have been forced into this position because London Underground management won't sit down properly and negotiate with us."

He said Transport for London's (TfL) pay offer of 3.8% plus a variable lump sum "means Underground drivers will stay on a lower salary than drivers on other TfL services while working longer hours".

ASLEF said TfL management has refused to discuss key issues, including reducing the working week and introducing paid meal times to bring drivers in line with those working on the Elizabeth line and London Overground.

TfL's Response

After the RMT suspended its strike action, Claire Mann, TfL's chief operating officer, said: "We are pleased that the RMT has suspended its planned industrial action on the London Underground network to allow further talks. We believe that our offer is fair, affordable, good for our colleagues and good news for London.

"We will continue to work closely with all our trade unions, and urge ASLEF to also call off its planned action next week. If it goes ahead customers should check before they travel as during their strikes on November 7 and 12 there will be little to no service."

What to Do If You Need to Travel During the Strikes

With the uncertainty surrounding the strikes, TfL is advising passengers to check before they travel and allow plenty of time for their journeys. They should also be prepared for potential delays and disruptions. It’s a good idea to explore alternative travel options such as walking, cycling, or using other public transport services like the Elizabeth line, London Overground, or buses.

The strikes are a reminder of the ongoing challenges facing London’s public transport system. It’s clear that a solution needs to be found to avoid further disruption for commuters and visitors alike.

The impact of these strikes is expected to be significant. Whether or not ASLEF calls off its action remains to be seen, but the disruption is sure to affect many people in the city. As the situation evolves, keep checking with TfL for the latest updates and information.

With the strikes set to impact the capital’s transport network, Londoners are urged to plan their journeys in advance. While other TfL services will still be running, those commuting are advised to expect delays and disruptions. TfL will be operating as many services as possible during the strike action. Customers are advised to check tfl.gov.uk/strikes for the latest information and updates on service disruptions.

The strikes, while a disruption to the city’s transport network, are a reminder of the importance of resolving the underlying issues that led to the industrial action. The pay, terms and conditions of London Underground workers are crucial to their well-being and impact the smooth operation of the city's transport system. Resolving these issues will be essential for ensuring a reliable and efficient public transport system for all Londoners.

Tags:
Strike action London Underground strikes R M T
Luca Rossi
Luca Rossi

Environmental Reporter

Reporting on environmental issues and sustainability.