TFL TUBE STRIKES OCTOBER 2023: When are they and why have the RMT called for them?

London Underground is set to face significant disruption as the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has announced two days of strike action on October 4 and 6.

The decision comes after a long-running dispute over job losses and concerns regarding safety on the tube network.

Since last year, the RMT has been in conflict with management over plans to cut 600 station staff positions and the deteriorating working conditions faced by employees. These issues have escalated, leading to heightened tensions and the union's decision to take strike action.

One of the major concerns raised by the union is the impact of these job losses on the safety of both staff and passengers. With fewer staff members, there are fears of increased workloads, more lone working arrangements, and a greater risk of fatigue.

What stations will be affected?

This hasn’t been announced just yet, but with more than 3,500 members involved in the dispute, it looks certain to be widespread across the Underground network.

The Overground and Elizabeth lines will however not be hit by the RMT walkout.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: "Station staff have had enough of having their livelihoods threatened by job losses and attacks on their terms and conditions.

"Station staff have a vital role to play assisting vulnerable passengers access the network safely and ensuring that the tube is a safe environment for passengers.

"These job cuts and attacks on conditions are going to lead to more unstaffed stations, temporary closures and rising passenger anger.

"TfL has had its budgets slashed but the savings made by these station staff cuts will be negatable and will lead to shortages that are unacceptable.

"This strike action will lead to the tube being shutdown and we call on Mayor Sadiq Khan to meet us urgently to discuss this matter."