London Underground strikes
London Underground strikes refers to the industrial action organised by trade unions which affect the London Underground rapid transit network. Described as "one of Britain's most strike-prone industries", trade unions, predominantly the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers, which represent workers on the network, and Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen, which represent Tube drivers, have launched strikes in response to disputes over job reductions, pensions, pay, safety, and working conditions.
Background
Transport for London is the umbrella government body that operates the London Underground, through its subsidiary, London Underground Limited. Most workers on the network are represented by RMT, while ASLEF predominantly represent the train drivers. Other bodies also launch strike action, including the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association.History
From 2000 to 2008, the RMT balloted for industrial action at least 50 times, resulting in member votes for strike action on 18 occasions. Overall, there were 30 separate strikes during this period.Response and impact
During the Tube strike on 19 August 2022, an increase in commuters in London was attributed to use of alternative transport methods, such as buses or public cycling, or using Tube lines unaffected by strikes, such as the Elizabeth Line. However, these modes of transport often quickly reach capacity during peak travel times.The Tube strike on 10 November 2022 are estimated to have cost London's economy £14 million in lost output in one day, according to the Centre for Economics and Business Research: an estimated 78,000 commuters were unable to travel.
From 8 to 11 September 2025, London Underground staff staged strikes that shut down nearly all Tube lines, with only the Elizabeth line and London Overground unaffected.