TfL taxi, bus and transport compliance officers set to strike over pay dispute
London’s transport enforcement network is bracing for disruption this December as nearly 300 compliance officers at Transport for London (TfL) plan to strike over pay concerns.
The strike action will affect enforcement operations across the capital, potentially leading to what union leaders have described as a “fares free-for-all”.
The officers, who are part of TfL’s Compliance, Policing, Operations and Security (CPOS) Directorate, are responsible for enforcing regulations on buses, taxis, and at stations. Their duties include ticket checks, bylaw enforcement, and anti-violence measures, often carried out alongside police services.
Unite say the dispute stems from TfL’s refusal to offer a percentage pay increase, instead proposing a lump sum payment. Workers are also demanding pay parity with London Underground staff performing similar roles but earning significantly more. Unite, the union representing the officers, argues that TfL’s offer is inadequate and fails to recognise the essential work carried out by these employees.
Unite members have voted in favour of strike action, with work stoppages planned for 12, 13, and 14 December, followed by additional strikes on 20, 21, and 22 December. This six-day walkout comes at a critical time, as the festive period typically sees increased travel demand across the capital.
The strike is expected to have a significant impact on TfL’s ability to enforce compliance, potentially leaving London’s transport network vulnerable to unregulated fare evasion and other issues. TfL has yet to comment on how it plans to mitigate the effects of the industrial action.
Sharon Graham, Unite General Secretary, said: “Our members keep London and its residents safe and sound on the TfL network. Yet these vital workers are being undervalued and have been offered an unacceptable pay deal. Unless TfL think again and come back to the table with an improved offer, London will see a fares free-for-all in the run up to Christmas.”
Steven Stockwell, Unite Regional Officer, said: “These workers are putting themselves in harms way on a daily basis and just want pay parity compared to other colleagues in London on a different part of the network.
“That TfL has decided to make such an unacceptable offer has made our members furious and their anger will be on display on picket lines later this month.”
