Millions of London commuters have been spared travel chaos after the RMT union called off planned Tube strikes at the eleventh hour, just hours before industrial action was set to begin.
The 24-hour strikes were scheduled to start at midday on Tuesday and again on Thursday, threatening to bring the capital's transport network to a standstill during the busy post-Christmas period.
The dispute centres on Transport for London's proposals to introduce driver-only operated trains, which would remove drivers' responsibility for opening and closing doors in favour of automatic systems.
TfL argues the modernisation drive will improve passenger safety and bring the network in line with other major transport systems. But the RMT union has branded the changes dangerous, claiming they would compromise safety for both drivers and passengers.
The union said it would continue negotiations with Transport for London over the controversial proposals. Talks between the two sides have dragged on for several months without resolution.
Whilst commuters will breathe a sigh of relief at avoiding widespread delays and overcrowded alternative transport, the underlying dispute remains unresolved. The threat of future strikes continues to loom over London's transport network.
Transport for London maintains its commitment to fleet modernisation whilst pledging continued engagement with the RMT to find common ground.