Tube strike given green light as union slams lack of ‘compromises’

A strike by London Underground workers will go ahead on Thursday after talks with Tube bosses broke up without agreement.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union said it had offered to suspend the action if Transport for London (TfL) had agreed to pause planned job cuts until the end of the year and promise no changes to pension terms.

Its statement said: “Arrogant Tube bosses refused to be reasonable and agree to the proposal, saying they would press ahead with their plans, meaning that LU staff have no choice but to go ahead with Thursday’s strike action.”

Mick Lynch, the RMT general secretary, said: “TfL have missed a golden opportunity to make progress in these negotiations and avoid strike action on Thursday.

“Our members are resolute in their determination to see a just settlement to this jobs and pensions dispute.

“And they will continue their industrial campaign for as long as it takes.

“TfL need to start making compromises and work with the union to reach a deal that works for staff and avoids further disruption to the lives of passengers.”

It had wanted TfL to make a clear statement that London Underground would not agree to “detrimental” attacks on pensions arising out of a review they are conducting with the government.

Glynn Barton, TfL’s chief operating officer, said: “TfL urged passengers to check before they travel on Thursday, warning London Overground and DLR services may be subject to last minute changes as a result of the Tube strike, while London Trams will be running a reduced timetable.

Disruption from the strike will continue to affect services into Friday morning.

Glynn Barton, TfL’s chief operating officer, said: “We met with the RMT and Unite this week to urge them to call off this Tube strike as no proposals to change pensions or conditions have been made.

“Unfortunately, no agreement could be reached but we remain open for discussions as there is still time for the unions to call off this action.”

TfL urged customers to check before they travel on Thursday as a “very limited or no service on the Tube” was expected.

“London Overground, the Elizabeth line and DLR services may be subject to last minute changes, including non-stopping at some stations shared with London Underground,” it said.

“London Trams will also be running a reduced timetable.”