More Tube strikes “likely” despite latest TfL funding deal

By Joe Talora, Local Democracy Reporter

The Tube network is set to face yet more disruption in the coming months as further strike action is “likely” following the latest Transport for London (TfL) funding deal, a union has warned.

Yesterday it was announced that TfL had accepted a multi-billion pound bailout from the Government that will keep services running and fund maintenance and infrastructure projects through to March 2024.

But Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said that “onerous” conditions attached to the deal by the Government meant it was “far from ideal”, with fare increases, service cuts and changes to TfL staff pensions still on the cards.

The Tube network was brought to an almost complete standstill on August 19 when members of the union walked out over fears that the bailout, which the RMT says was negotiated “in secret”, would lead to job and pensions cuts.

On Wednesday morning, the RMT union announced that the conditions imposed by the Government will “likely” lead to more strikes.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “This deal, negotiated in secret by TfL and Government ministers, will likely see our members’ pensions attacked and further pay restraint in the future, coupled with driverless trains.

“(Transport secretary) Grant Shapps’ attack on Tube workers would be unacceptable at any time, but in an escalating cost of living crisis it is shameful and will be resisted through further strike action.

“TfL need to stand up to Grant Shapps and demand a deal that serves all the people of London and addresses the real concerns of London transport workers who keep the capital running.”

The biggest point of contention for unions contained within the funding agreement is the condition that TfL has until September to outline how it intends to move its pension scheme into a “long-term, financially sustainable position”.

That is despite Mr Khan saying in June that he was “not persuaded that there are any grounds to change the pensions” of those working for TfL and that it was “for the Government to make the case” following an independent review into TfL’s pensions.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the deal “more than delivers for Londoners” and matches the Mayor of London’s own pre-pandemic spending plans.

Mr Shapps said: “The Mayor must follow through on his promises to get TfL back on a steady financial footing, stop relying on Government bailouts and take responsibility for his actions.”

Pictured top: More Tube strikes could be on the cards (Picture: Paul Lagan)