London Underground faces fresh round of Tube strikes
Commuters face disruption on Tube lines in April and May as train drivers plan to strike over working conditions and pay.
The Aslef union, which represents more than 2,000 London Underground drivers, said members would walk out for two 24 hour strikes on April 8 and May 4.
Transport for London (TfL) has said Tube services will start later than normal on April 9, and May 5, with a “good service” expected by mid-morning on both days.
Other services, including the Elizabeth line, London Overground, the DLR and trams are not affected by the strikes, but TfL has warned commuters that they may be busier than usual, with queuing systems likely to be in place at stations.
Finn Brennan, Aslef’s organiser on London Underground, said: “Despite a previous commitment to withdraw plans for massive changes to drivers’ working conditions, London Underground management has established a full-time team of managers preparing to impose their plans.
“They want drivers to work longer shifts, spending up to 25 per cent more time in the cab, and to remove all current working agreements.
“It’s about getting people to work harder and longer for less.”
The Tube strike on April 8 will coincide with train strikes previously announced by Aslef.
The union said the train driver strike on April 8 would impact 16 rail network companies including Southeastern, Southern and Gatwick Express, South Western Railway (SWR) main line and depot drivers and SWR Island Line.
Nick Dent, director of customer operations for London Underground, said: “We are encouraging ASLEF to continue engaging with us so the strike action can be avoided.
“We would like to advise anyone travelling to please check before you travel, expect services to be busy and please allow extra time to complete your journeys.”
(Picture: TfL)