Calls for TfL to tackle 'collapse of etiquette' on the Tube

Londoners are calling for Transport for London (TfL) to tackle the "collapse of etiquette on public transport" in a new petition.

The petition is asking TfL to tackle "headphone dodgers" in particular, those "playing loud music, scrolling through social media reels or holding conversations on loudspeaker".

Adding that passengers acting in such a manner make journeys "challenging for people who are audio-sensitive or neurodivergent."

At the time of writing, the petition had more than 320 signatures and is quickly gaining traction.

The petition shares that TfL could raise awareness on the issue through "posters, announcements, and social media campaigns", helping educate passengers on the "importance of maintaining a respectful environment for all."

Adding that it would "remind everyone that our actions affect others, fostering an atmosphere of respect and consideration."

The petition goes on to "urge TfL to heed this call for action and prioritise creating a more considerate commuting environment."

You can see the full petition here. 

Mark Evers, Chief Customer Officer at TfL, said: “It’s vital that everyone shows respect and consideration for one another when we travel on London’s transport network.

"If you’re listening to music or watching content while on the move, please consider others and use headphones to ensure everyone can enjoy their journey.”

It's not the first time Londoners have shared their frustration and anger at the rise in people not using headphones on public transport.

As many previously deemed the act 'rude' and 'selfish', with others agreeing that playing on a loudspeaker should be banned altogether.

In May, the Liberal Democrats said they want to change the law to ban the behaviour of playing loud music on speakers while on public transport in England.

Discussing the party's plans, the Lib Dems' home affairs spokesperson Lisa Smart said: "Time and time again, I hear from people who say they feel too intimidated to speak up when someone is blasting music or other content from a phone or speaker.

"It's time to take a stand for the quiet majority who just want to get from A to B in peace."