TfL Officers Plan Strike Over Pay Dispute, Impacting London Transport

Nearly 300 Compliance Officers Plan December Walkouts

London’s transport enforcement network faces major disruption this December as nearly 300 compliance officers at Transport for London (TfL) prepare to strike. The planned walkouts stem from a pay dispute, with workers demanding a percentage-based pay increase rather than a one-time lump sum payment.

Union representatives warn the strike could lead to a “fares free-for-all,” disrupting enforcement operations on buses, taxis, and stations.

Responsibilities of TfL’s Compliance Officers

The officers, part of TfL’s Compliance, Policing, Operations, and Security (CPOS) Directorate, play a key role in maintaining order on London’s transport network. Their duties include conducting ticket checks, enforcing bylaws, and managing anti-violence measures. These responsibilities are often carried out alongside police services to ensure passenger safety.

Union leaders stress the importance of these officers, particularly given the risks involved in their daily tasks.

Union’s Stand on the Pay Dispute

Unite, the union representing the officers, has stated that TfL’s refusal to offer a percentage pay increase has fueled the dispute. Workers argue that a lump sum payment does not provide long-term financial stability or adequately recognize their work.

Additionally, officers are seeking pay parity with London Underground staff performing similar roles but earning significantly higher salaries. Unite criticized TfL’s proposal as inadequate and dismissive of the officers’ essential contributions.

Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham commented:

“Our members keep London and its residents safe and sound on the TfL network. Yet these vital workers are being undervalued and have been offered an unacceptable pay deal. Unless TfL think again and come back to the table with an improved offer, London will see a fares free-for-all in the run up to Christmas.”

Planned Strike Dates and Potential Impact

The compliance officers have voted in favor of strike action, with walkouts scheduled for six days in December. The first round of strikes will occur on December 12, 13, and 14, followed by additional stoppages on December 20, 21, and 22.

These dates coincide with the festive season, a period of increased travel demand across London. The absence of compliance officers is expected to disrupt TfL’s enforcement efforts, potentially leaving the transport network vulnerable to fare evasion and other compliance issues.

Unite Regional Officer Steven Stockwell remarked:

“These workers are putting themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis and just want pay parity compared to other colleagues in London on a different part of the network. That TfL has decided to make such an unacceptable offer has made our members furious and their anger will be on display on picket lines later this month.”

Broader Implications for TfL’s Transport Network

The strike highlights broader issues within TfL’s enforcement operations. Compliance officers are essential to ensuring safety and regulation across buses, taxis, and stations.

Their absence could create significant operational gaps, increasing fare evasion and reducing passenger safety during a critical travel period. Union leaders have urged TfL to return to negotiations, warning of severe disruption unless a revised pay offer is made.

TfL taxi, bus and transport compliance officers set to strike over pay dispute—a move that could leave Londoners facing major transport challenges this December.