RMT chief Eddie Dempsey has asserted that tube drivers earning £72,000 annually are unable to afford homes in London, highlighting the union’s steadfast stance amid ongoing strikes. Speaking to Times Radio, Dempsey defended the industrial action, stating that the salary, approximately £25,000 above the median earnings in the capital, was not excessive. He emphasised his commitment to advocating for RMT members, declaring, “Workers should be able to afford to live in London.”
Tube drivers currently earn between £65,000 and £75,000. Dempsey argued that although £72,000 is a substantial wage, it does not preclude the need for improved pay and working conditions. He noted that with average house prices requiring an income exceeding £100,000 to purchase a home, the current salary is insufficient.
Dempsey expressed concerns regarding the working conditions for tube drivers, who are seeking additional travel discounts beyond work hours. Despite Mayor Sadiq Khan’s efforts to secure a 3.4% pay rise, the RMT’s demand for a 32-hour workweek remains unmet, leaving commuters and business owners frustrated. Business owners have voiced concerns about reduced revenue, with tax advisory firm Blick Rothenberg estimating a £230 million cost to London’s economy and suggesting tax holidays for affected hospitality businesses.
While the strikes are expected to conclude in phases this week, the RMT has threatened to expand industrial action beyond the London Underground and DLR. Mayor Khan has stated he will not offer a more generous settlement but urges RMT negotiators to engage with Transport for London.
In his Times Radio interview, Dempsey implied a lack of communication from Khan, suggesting the Mayor should extend a formal invitation for negotiations. “We’ll attend and do our best to reach a settlement,” Dempsey concluded.
