London’s pubs and restaurants brace for impact of Tube strikes

LocalBusiness & Finance
21 Apr 2026 • 6:25 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

London’s pubs and restaurants brace for impact of Tube strikes

  • Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union have commenced a 24-hour strike from midday Tuesday, with another walkout scheduled for Thursday, causing widespread disruption to London Underground services all week.
  • Transport for London (TfL) has advised passengers to check before travelling, as the industrial action is expected to impact all Tube services.
  • The dispute centres on TfL's proposals concerning a four-day working week, changes to shift lengths, and annual leave, which RMT union members are strongly opposing.
  • London's pubs and restaurants are anticipating a significant negative impact on their trade, with the British Beer and Pub Association highlighting a potential £80 million loss in gross added value between Tuesday and Friday.
  • TfL maintains that its proposals for a four-day working week are voluntary, would not reduce contractual hours, and are designed to enhance reliability and flexibility without incurring extra costs.

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