RMT union announces Tube strikes over four-day week dispute
The union claims Transport for London is trying to worsen conditions for drivers, while another union has accepted the proposal.
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The RMT union has announced a new series of Tube strikes set to begin on November 26, 2026, continuing until February 25, 2027. This action follows ongoing disputes over Transport for London's (TfL) proposed changes to drivers' working patterns, specifically the introduction of a four-day working week.
Union Concerns Over Working Conditions
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The RMT union claims that TfL's proposal, presented as a voluntary four-day week, is an attempt to worsen conditions for drivers. According to the union, drivers face increased driving time, longer and less predictable shifts, earlier starts, later finishes, and potential impacts on existing transfer rights and annual leave. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey stated that the scheme forces drivers to give up existing protections and threatens those who refuse with displacement from their depots. He added that the union is not opposed to a genuine four-day week but will not accept it as a means for job cuts or intensified working.
TfL, however, maintains that the new working patterns have been assessed using industry-standard fatigue tools and will not increase fatigue among drivers. The transport body also states that drivers who choose to remain on a five-day working week will do so with the same new terms and conditions as those opting for a four-day week.
TfL's Proposal and Driver Choice
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Nick Dent, Director of Customer Operations for London Underground, explained that TfL has engaged with trade unions for months regarding the four-day week proposal. As a result of this engagement, drivers now have the option to remain on a five-day week with a guarantee of staying at their current depot. Dent stated this provides a meaningful choice on working patterns without changing work locations. He urged the RMT to put the proposal to its members, noting that the new option was introduced after feedback from staff.
In contrast to the RMT's stance, the ASLEF union, which also represents Tube drivers, has accepted TfL's four-day week proposal. Members of ASLEF are expected to work as normal during the planned strike periods.
Scheduled Strike Dates
The RMT has announced multiple 24-hour strike actions. These are scheduled to begin at noon on the following dates: November 26, 2026; December 17, 2026; December 19, 2026; January 4, 2027; January 6, 2027; February 17, 2027; February 23, 2027; and February 25, 2027.
Questions this report answers
+Why is the RMT union striking?
The RMT union is striking because it claims Transport for London's (TfL) proposed four-day working week will worsen conditions for drivers. The union alleges this includes increased driving time, longer shifts, and potential impacts on existing rights, despite TfL stating the changes will not increase fatigue.
+What is Transport for London's proposal for drivers?
Transport for London (TfL) is proposing a new four-day working week. Drivers can also choose to remain on a five-day week with the same new terms and conditions as those who opt for the four-day option, and with a guarantee of remaining at the same depot.
+Has every Tube driver union accepted the proposal?
No, not all Tube driver unions have accepted the proposal. The RMT union is actively campaigning against it, while the ASLEF union, which also represents Tube drivers, has accepted TfL's four-day week proposal.
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