London Underground drivers begin 24-hour strike over four-day workweek dispute

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union began a 24-hour strike at midday on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, disrupting London Underground services.

The strike is the first of two planned 24-hour walkouts, with the second scheduled to start at midday on Thursday.

The industrial action follows failed negotiations with Transport for London (TfL) over a proposed voluntary compressed four-day working week for train operators.

TfL has proposed this change to improve reliability and flexibility without additional cost.

The strike has led to the complete closure of the Piccadilly and Circle lines.

The Metropolitan line is closed between Baker Street and Aldgate, and the Central line is not running between White City and Liverpool Street.

Other lines are operating with significantly reduced services.

RMT members, who represent roughly half of the Tube drivers, oppose the plan, arguing that the longer working days risk driver fatigue and compromise safety.

The union is calling instead for a 32-hour four-day week at the same salary.

RMT London transport regional organiser Jared Wood said negotiations left members feeling there was no alternative but to strike.

TfL has stated that the compressed four-day week would be voluntary, with no reduction in contractual hours due to the introduction of paid meal breaks.

Drivers who prefer to maintain a five-day working week can do so.

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