Understanding the Ongoing Dispute Between RMT Union and Transport for London
The dispute centered on demands for a reduction in the working week to 32 hours by the RMT union, and still have not been resolved. The main issue is the number of hours that RMT union members are expected to work per week. Currently, they are expected to work 35 hours, but the union is pushing for a reduction to 32 hours. This may seem like a small difference, but it has significant implications for both the union and Transport for London (TfL).
So, what happens next? Is more chaos on the cards imminently? To answer this question, we need to understand the background of the dispute and the current state of negotiations between the RMT union and TfL.
What Were the Strikes About?
The issues between the two sides have not reached a conclusion, meaning the row is currently ongoing. The RMT still disputes the working hours their members have to agree to, and instead want a 32-hour week – reduced from the current 35 hours expected. Before this was a demand from the union, but following the strike action, the language has now changed, and they say they want “steps towards” a 32-hour week instead. In working practice, it is not known what this means.
Transport for London previously said this was a sticking point they could not get over. It says even a 30-minute reduction in the working week would cost £30m a year. A reduction to 32 hours, according to TfL, would cost over £200m. These costs are significant, and it’s understandable that TfL is hesitant to agree to the union’s demands.
The Role of London Mayor Sadiq Khan
London Mayor Sadiq Khan did not get involved in last week’s action, but it has been suggested he has now. This could be a positive development, as the mayor’s involvement may help to facilitate negotiations and find a resolution to the dispute.
On Thursday, the general secretary of the RMT Eddie Dempsey told the BBC that he was putting in the foundations for talks between the rowing parties. He said: “We are pleased to see finally that Sadiq Khan has instructed TfL to meet us…so I’m now waiting for a formal invitation and once that is received we will go straight back to talks and a resolution so we can get London moving again.”
Will There Be More Strikes?
For a deal to be hashed out, it would probably take compromise on both sides, which has not been evident so far. However, strikes that were due to take place in north-west and south-west London over the course of last weekend (September 13 and 14) were called off, which could mean a glimmer of hope. For another strike to happen, union members would have to agree via a ballot vote, and that has not happened yet. If workers did vote on the issue and agree to strike, details typically have to be given to TfL at least 14 days before it begins.
Current State of Negotiations
The mayor told the London Assembly on Thursday he “expected talks to resume between the RMT and TfL soon.” TfL has invited the RMT to talks on this coming Wednesday (September 17). Bosses say they have not been instructed to do so by the mayor and that they wish to get an agreement in place. This is a positive development, as it suggests that both sides are willing to negotiate and find a resolution to the dispute.
What Does the Future Hold?
It’s difficult to predict what the future holds for the RMT union and TfL. However, it’s clear that the dispute is ongoing, and it will take compromise and negotiation from both sides to find a resolution. The involvement of London Mayor Sadiq Khan may help to facilitate talks, and the cancellation of last weekend’s strikes could be a positive sign. However, until a deal is reached, the threat of further strikes remains.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the dispute between the RMT union and Transport for London is complex and ongoing. The union is pushing for a reduction in working hours, while TfL is concerned about the costs of such a reduction. The involvement of London Mayor Sadiq Khan may help to facilitate negotiations, and the cancellation of last weekend’s strikes could be a positive sign. However, until a deal is reached, the threat of further strikes remains. It’s essential for both sides to compromise and work towards a resolution to avoid further disruption to London’s transport network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main issue in the dispute between the RMT union and Transport for London?
A: The main issue is the number of hours that RMT union members are expected to work per week. The union is pushing for a reduction from 35 hours to 32 hours.
Q: Why is Transport for London hesitant to agree to the union’s demands?
A: TfL is concerned about the costs of reducing working hours. They estimate that a 30-minute reduction in the working week would cost £30m a year, and a reduction to 32 hours would cost over £200m.
Q: Is London Mayor Sadiq Khan involved in the dispute?
A: Yes, the mayor has been involved in the dispute, and his involvement may help to facilitate negotiations.
Q: Will there be more strikes?
A: It’s possible that there could be more strikes if a deal is not reached between the RMT union and TfL. However, the cancellation of last weekend’s strikes could be a positive sign.
Q: How can a resolution be reached?
A: A resolution can be reached through compromise and negotiation from both sides. It’s essential for the RMT union and TfL to work together to find a solution that meets the needs of both parties.
