Initial Round of RMT Tube Strikes Called Off
Union says progress made in talks over four day week
RMT generally represents rail staff other than drivers
March 19, 2026
The first two planned 24hour Tube strikes by RMT drivers have been called off following progress in negotiations with London Underground. This offers shortterm relief for passengers who had been bracing for major disruption next week.
The walkouts, due to begin at midday on 24 and 26 March, were suspended late on Wednesday (18 March) after what the union described as “serious engagement” from management over plans to introduce a condensed fourday working week.
The dispute remains unresolved, and all further strike dates in April, May and newly announced dates in June are still scheduled to go ahead. But the suspension of next week’s action marks the first significant movement in the standoff.
RMT members have been protesting against London Underground’s proposal to restructure driver rosters by compressing the standard week into four longer shifts. Although the total weekly hours would fall from 36 to 35 through the introduction of paid meal breaks, the union argues that the extended shift lengths would increase fatigue and compromise safety. The RMT instead wants a 32hour week over four days, with no loss of pay.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said the union had “forced management into a position where they are now willing to seriously engage with the issues our members want addressing,” adding that the dispute “remains live” and that further talks are planned. London Underground has maintained that the fourday week is voluntary and currently being trialled on the Bakerloo line to test its viability.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan welcomed the suspension as “positive news for Londoners, businesses and visitors,” while London Underground’s Nick Dent said he was pleased the RMT had paused next week’s action and that management would continue working “constructively” with unions to avoid further disruption.
Despite the breakthrough, the capital still faces a series of walkouts later in the spring. Strikes on 21 and 23 April, 19 and 21 May, and newly added dates on 16 and 18 June remain in place. The RMT has also instructed members not to use companyissued electronic devices from 21 March onwards.
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