Tube union 'hopeful' of deal to avoid more strikes

There were almost no Tube services from Sunday 7 September for five days

The general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has expressed cautious optimism that a resolution can be reached with Transport for London (TfL) following last week’s Tube strikes, while warning TfL not to dismiss the union’s concerns.

Services across London Underground were severely disrupted from 7 to 12 September, as RMT members staged a rolling walkout over pay and their demand for a 32-hour working week, a reduction from the current schedule.

Speaking to BBC Radio London, RMT chief Eddie Dempsey said:

“I’m hopeful, almost optimistic, but I’ve seen negotiations stall before. We aim to make progress in these talks.”

TfL has previously rejected the union’s 32-hour week demand, calling it “unaffordable,” and offered a 3.4% pay increaseinstead. The transport body has invited RMT representatives to continue discussions this Wednesday.

During the strike, Londoners sought alternative transport options. Usage on the Elizabeth line rose by nearly a third on Monday, cycle-hire trips surged by 93% by Wednesday, and the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers saw a 70% increase in passengers across the week. London Overground also recorded higher ridership, while bus usage grew by around 10% as commuters adapted to the disruption.

Passengers voiced frustration and concern over the impact of the strike. Emma Walsh, a commuter from Stratford, said:

“It was stressful trying to get to work with almost no Tube trains running. I had to take two buses and a cycle just to reach my office on time. I hope both sides can reach an agreement soon.”

Meanwhile, Ravi Patel, a delivery driver, added:

“It’s caused delays for everyone. I understand the workers’ concerns, but the disruption has been tough for people who rely on public transport daily.”

TfL responded to the ongoing negotiations, stating:

“We are committed to engaging constructively with the RMT to reach a fair agreement. The offer of a 3.4% pay increase is designed to balance affordability with supporting our dedicated workforce. We encourage the union to continue discussions in good faith to avoid further disruption for Londoners.”

Mr. Dempsey emphasised that the union is willing to negotiate in good faith but warned that further strikes remain possible if progress is not made:

“It would be remarkably foolish to get the cold shoulder at the first meeting. We’ll take our time, consult our members, and seek a compromise that works for both sides. If talks fail, we’ll have to return to our members to decide next steps, which could mean additional strike action.”

Any future industrial action would require a formal ballot of RMT members and at least two weeks’ notice.

Dempsey concluded by stressing the union’s record of resolving disputes elsewhere:

“Londoners only see us when we’re on strike, but most of the work we do is settling agreements. We’ve successfully concluded hundreds of pay claims this year; this is just one case where negotiations have hit a temporary roadblock.”