Last-ditch talks underway to prevent widespread Tube strikes

Transport for London is racing to avoid a wave of Tube strikes that could disrupt journeys across the capital over the next two months.

Commissioner Andy Lord said he is hopeful ongoing discussions with the RMT union will lead to a resolution before the first planned walkout begins at midday on 24 March.

Negotiations continue despite deadlock

Talks earlier this week between TfL and the RMT failed to produce an agreement, but further negotiations are scheduled. Lord said he was “clearly disappointed” by the decision to press ahead with strike action while discussions remain active.

Dispute centres on four-day week proposal

At the heart of the row is TfL’s plan to introduce a voluntary four-day working week for Tube drivers. The proposal would allow drivers to work the same total hours over fewer days, without any loss of pay, with a potential trial on the Bakerloo line.

TfL insists the scheme is optional, but the RMT fears it could become compulsory over time and lead to longer shifts, fatigue and reduced work-life balance.

Six strikes scheduled through spring

The RMT has announced six 24-hour strikes, each starting at midday and expected to impact services across multiple days:

• 24–25 March

• 26–27 March

• 21–22 April

• 23–24 April

• 19–20 May

• 21–22 May

With two strikes planned each month, disruption could be felt repeatedly across the network.

Services to continue, but disruption likely

TfL says most lines will continue running, although at reduced levels, and the impact is expected to be less severe than previous strikes.

Other services, including the Elizabeth line, DLR and London Overground, will remain open but are likely to be extremely busy.

Around 1,800 drivers are eligible to strike, and picket lines are expected at depots rather than stations.

Passengers urged to plan ahead

Warnings of “severe disruption” are already being displayed across stations and broadcast over announcements.

Despite this, TfL maintains there is still time to reach a deal. Lord said the proposal had been shaped with union input and stressed that no driver would be forced into new working patterns.

He added that he hopes continued dialogue will prevent the need for industrial action, avoiding disruption for millions of passengers.