London Underground Drivers’ Work Week Restructuring Under Discussion

Drivers for the London Underground could experience alterations to their working conditions, following what the Aslef union describes as “a genuinely ground-breaking agreement” reached with Transport for London (TfL). Among the proposals is a discussion focused on reorganizing the working week. This announcement comes after successful pay negotiations led to the cancellation of previously planned strikes. Transport for London stated that discussions are ongoing and that there will be no reduction in contractual hours. These talks were initiated after Aslef indicated that its members’ working hours on the Underground were less favorable compared to those of their counterparts on the Elizabeth line and London Overground. The union had previously threatened industrial action for November 7 and 12 if TfL did not present an enhanced offer. A letter sent by TfL to Aslef on November 5 indicated that by January 2025, a proposal would be outlined for implementing an average four-day working week, incorporating paid meal breaks within working hours. TfL asserted that this initiative would lead to a reduction in time spent at work, concurrently enhancing service reliability and efficiency, all while preserving the existing 35-hour contractual working week. However, they have acknowledged that no firm commitment has yet been made regarding its implementation. Additionally, members are set to receive a 3.8% pay increase and an additional five days of paid paternity leave. A spokesperson for TfL commented: “As with any proposal, there are still details that need to be worked through and any changes would need to be mutually beneficial, preserving or improving the reliability of our service for our customers and improving efficiency. “We will continue discussions with our unions.””