The RMT union is facing growing criticism as it proceeds with two 24-hour strikes on the London Underground this week, rejecting a four-day week deal that rival union Aslef has accepted. The strikes, starting at 12pm on Tuesday and again at midday on Thursday, will disrupt services over a four-day period for drivers earning approximately £75,000 a year.
The deal offered by Transport for London (TfL) includes a voluntary four-day week pilot on the Bakerloo Line, with average weekly rostered hours reducing from 36 to 34, an extra rest day, and overtime paid at time and a quarter. Aslef district organiser Finn Brennan described it as the biggest improvement in working conditions for Tube drivers in decades, matching or surpassing mainline rail standards.
However, the RMT argues the proposal is a 'fake four-day week' compressing five days' work into four, with reduced shift flexibility and safety concerns due to longer shifts. An RMT spokesperson said members fear fatigue could impact safety in a safety-critical role like Tube driving.
The strikes have angered commuters and drawn political criticism. Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden accused the RMT of holding London to ransom, while London Mayor Sadiq Khan urged both sides to return to negotiations. TfL's chief operating officer Claire Mann expressed disappointment, emphasising the voluntary nature of the four-day week proposal.
TfL advises passengers to check before travelling on strike days, as trains will run on most lines but with disruption across the network.
