The RMT union has accepted a three-year inflation-plus pay deal for London Underground workers, ending a dispute that caused widespread disruption in September. The agreement will see drivers' pay rise to nearly £80,000 by 2027, with station staff also benefiting from the increase.
The deal includes an initial 3.4% rise backdated to April, with subsequent increases in line with the Retail Prices Index (RPI) — higher than the Consumer Prices Index typically used. Guaranteed minimum rates mean the total package is worth at least 9.2% over three years.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey hailed the agreement as "a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of strike action and strong negotiation by our members." He added that the union would now seek similar increases across the transport sector, noting that the deal avoided linking pay to "flawed productivity discussions."
The strikes in September closed the Underground for four days, forcing Londoners to use alternative transport. Transport for London (TfL) had rejected the union's demand for a 32-hour working week as unworkable and unaffordable.
A TfL spokesperson welcomed the decision, saying: "This multi-year offer is fair, affordable and provides certainty for our colleagues over pay for several years." The offer still requires approval from the Aslef, Unite, and TSSA unions, though none are expected to object.
Currently, tube drivers earn a basic salary of £71,170, while station staff earn between £30,000 and £45,000. The new deal ensures pay rises keep pace with inflation, with minimum guarantees if inflation falls.
