The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union is reportedly considering a novel form of industrial action for the London Underground, where trains would continue to run but passengers would not be required to pay fares. This 'no fares' strike model, said to be inspired by tactics employed by railway unions in Japan, aims to significantly impact Transport for London's (TfL) revenue without causing widespread disruption to commuters' journeys.
Such a strategy represents a departure from traditional strike action, which typically involves a complete cessation of services. By allowing trains to operate, the union could maintain public goodwill by ensuring people can still travel, while simultaneously inflicting financial pressure on TfL. The specifics of how such a system would be implemented, including preventing fare evasion through ticket barriers, would need careful consideration.
This development comes amidst ongoing industrial disputes between the RMT and TfL concerning pay, pensions, and working conditions. The union has previously engaged in several strikes that have brought the Tube network to a standstill, causing significant inconvenience for millions of Londoners and visitors. The exploration of alternative strike methods suggests a strategic re-evaluation by the union to maximise impact while potentially mitigating public backlash.
The concept of a 'no fares' strike is not entirely new in the context of global industrial relations, with examples from other countries demonstrating its potential effectiveness in exerting pressure on employers. For TfL, which relies heavily on fare revenue to fund its operations and investment, a prolonged period of uncollected fares could lead to substantial financial losses, potentially escalating the pressure to negotiate a resolution to the dispute.
While no formal decision has been announced by the RMT, the discussion around this 'Japan-style' strike tactic signals a potential shift in the landscape of industrial action within the UK transport sector. It highlights the union's ongoing efforts to find innovative ways to advance its members' interests in the face of persistent disagreements with employers.