NOVEMBER TUBE STRIKE ON: RMT suspends rail strikes, but London tube strike remains on

Image credit: Transport for London (TfL)

Rail union RMT has suspended planned strikes on 5, 7 and 9 November and will now enter into a period of intensive negotiations with Network Rail and the train operating companies.

However, planned industrial action, that will close much of the London Underground, will continue on Thursday 10 November as that continues to be a separate dispute.

Strikes are still taking place which will impact Tube and London Overground services. Transport for London (TfL) is advising customers to avoid travelling on the Tube as limited or no service is expected. London Overground will run a full service, however it may be subject to last minute changes, including non-stopping at some stations shared with London Underground. All other services on the TfL network, including buses, are expected to run but may be extremely busy.

Disruption from the previous day's strikes will continue to affect customers into the morning of Friday 11 November, with affected Tube and London Overground services not operating before 08:00. Customers are encouraged to check before they travel.

The RMT say they have secured unconditional talks on Network Rail and the promise of an offer from the train operating companies who up until this point, have made no offer to RMT members.

The rail representatives were keen to point out that the current dispute remains very much live, and the union is continuing its re-ballot of members to secure a fresh mandate for action with the result due on 15 November.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “The threat of strike action and our strongly supported industrial campaign has made the rail employers see sense.

“We have always wanted to secure a negotiated settlement and that is what we will continue to push for in this next phase of intensive talks.

“Our priority is our members, and we are working towards securing a deal on job security, a decent pay rise and good working conditions.

“Our re-ballot remains live and if we have to take strike action during the next 6 months to secure a deal, we will.”