Union warns of “fares free-for-all” as TfL enforcement officers to strike over pay dispute

Image: TfL Enforcement Officers

Six days of industrial action threaten enforcement operations across London

Transport for London is expecting dirsuption this December as 300 of its enforcement officers plan to strike over pay. The strike action will affect enforcement operations across the capital, potentially leading to what union leaders have described as a “fares free-for-all”.

The officers, who are part of TfL’s Compliance, Policing, Operations and Security (CPOS) Directorate, are responsible for enforcing regulations on buses, taxis, and at stations. Their duties include ticket checks, bylaw enforcement, and anti-violence measures, often carried out alongside police services.

Unite, the union representing the officers, say the dispute stems from TfL’s refusal to offer a percentage pay increase, instead proposing a lump sum payment. Workers are also demanding pay parity with London Underground staff performing similar roles but earning significantly more.

Unite argues TfL’s offer is inadequate and fails to recognise the essential work carried out by these employees.

Image: Unite Gen Sec Sharon Graham

Unite decries “unacceptable” pay offer to workers

Unite members have voted in favour of strike action, with work stoppages planned for 12, 13, and 14 December, followed by additional strikes on 20, 21, and 22 December. This six-day walkout comes at a critical time, as the Christmas period typically sees increased travel demand across the capital.

The strike is expected to have a significant impact on TfL’s ability to enforce compliance, potentially leaving London’s transport network vulnerable to unregulated fare evasion and other issues. TfL has yet to comment on how it plans to mitigate the effects of the industrial action.

Sharon Graham, Unite General Secretary, said:

“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.”

Steven Stockwell, Unite Regional Officer, said:

“These workers are putting themselves in harms 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.”

TfL have not yet responded to the strike announcement.