London Underground Drivers Announce Eight Days of Strikes Over Working Arrangements

London Underground drivers are set to stage a series of 24-hour strikes in an ongoing dispute regarding working arrangements, the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union announced. The walkouts are scheduled to begin on November 26, 2026, with subsequent actions planned throughout December 2026, January 2027, and February 2027.

The industrial action comes in opposition to Transport for London (TfL) plans to introduce changes to working conditions, which include the implementation of a voluntary four-day working week. The union argues that the proposal will force drivers to spend more time actively driving trains, accept longer and more unpredictable shifts, and surrender agreements defended over many years. Furthermore, the RMT stated its belief that the changes would pave the way for hundreds of job cuts.

Transport for London defended the proposed changes, asserting that they are designed to offer a genuine choice while reducing overall hours on the job. Nick Dent, Director of Customer Operations for London Underground, explained that drivers who choose to remain on a traditional five-day week will be guaranteed their current depots. He added that the measures would mean less time at work for Tube drivers while delivering a more efficient and reliable service for customers.

The dispute has drawn sharp criticism from political figures and business leaders concerned about the economic impact of widespread transit disruptions. Shadow London minister Gareth Bacon criticized the union for calling pointless strikes and accused the government and the Mayor of London of caving into demands. Laila Cunningham, a Reform UK London mayoral candidate, warned that the actions threaten to harm shops, restaurants, pubs, and theaters during the crucial run-up to Christmas and the New Year.

Business groups have also expressed deep concern over the timing of the walkouts. Ed Richardson, transport programme director for the business group BusinessLDN, stated that the strikes will not bring festive cheer to residents and visitors who rely on the network, urging both sides to reach an agreement urgently.

Meanwhile, the Aslef union, which represents a significant portion of other network drivers, expressed surprise at the RMT's decision. Finn Brennan, Aslef's full-time organiser on London Underground, noted that the voluntary four-day system offers drivers an extra 35 days off annually with rosters based on a 34-hour week, describing a strike intended to halt shorter working options as a strange choice.

Despite previous talks and ongoing discussions, the RMT has not accepted TfL's proposals. As the scheduled dates approach, commuters face the prospect of severe travel disruptions across multiple lines in the coming months.