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The London Underground is prepared for a week of turmoil next month as numerous employees stage a walkout in a new conflict regarding remuneration and working conditions.
The RMT union confirmed that a series of continuous strikes will commence on September 5, involving signallers, engineers, and service control personnel across various Tube lines. Operators are not taking part in the action, but widespread disruption to services is anticipated.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey stated that members were striking due to years of exhaustion, irregular shift patterns, and what they perceive as insufficient pay. “Our members are performing excellently to keep our capital moving,” he remarked. “They’re not seeking a king’s ransom, but exhaustion and drastic shift rotations are serious concerns affecting their health and wellbeing – all of which London Underground management has neglected.”
The union has dismissed a 3.4% pay increase proposed by London Underground, contending that it falls below inflation and overlooks broader issues regarding working hours. RMT polled over 10,000 members, with approximately 6,000 voting in favor of strike action.
City Hall urged both parties to circumvent disruption. A representative for Mayor Sadiq Khan stated: “Nobody wishes to see strike action or disturbances for Londoners. The mayor encourages the RMT and TfL to convene to resolve this issue.”
TfL, employing about 28,000 staff, asserted that its proposal is equitable and sustainable. A spokesperson mentioned: “We are dedicated to ensuring colleagues are treated fairly and, alongside offering a 3.4% salary increase, we have made advancements on concerns regarding fatigue and scheduling. However, a reduction in the contractual 35-hour work week is neither feasible nor affordable.”
The timing of the strikes will result in maximum disruption. They coincide with Coldplay’s sold-out finale at Wembley Stadium, the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, Post Malone’s concert at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and a full schedule of Premier League and Women’s Super League matches.
Business associations and opposition politicians have cautioned about the economic repercussions. Keith Prince, transport spokesman for London Assembly Conservatives, stated: “London will be plunged into disorder by these strikes, jeopardizing jobs and our economy. TfL must address this matter before it occurs.”
With Britain already losing more than 280,000 working days to strikes in the first half of the year, the announcement adds further strain on the Labour Government, which promised to restore stability to industrial relations after inflation-driven public sector pay agreements.
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