The RMT union has called off two planned strikes by London Underground workers this week.
Initially scheduled for Wednesday and Friday (October 4 and 7), the strikes protested plans to cut up to 600 staff positions to save costs.
The union said the strikes were cancelled due to “significant progress” in talks with London Underground at the conciliation service Acas.
Read More: London Underground Staff To Strike Again In October
However, some elements of dispute remain, and negotiations continue concerning pensions and working agreements.
Mick Lynch, the RMT general secretary, said the strike threat had led to “securing this victory”.
“We still remain in dispute over outstanding issues around pensions and working agreements and will continue to pursue a negotiated settlement.”
Transport for London welcomed the resolution as “good news for London” and reiterated that no employees would lose their jobs.
Nevertheless, rail passengers are still facing disruptions on Wednesday.
Read More: Pensions Regulator Staff Extend Strike In Row Over Pay
Aslef train drivers are to start a national strike over a separate dispute.
This strike will suspend most train services in England, impacting cross-border services to Wales and Scotland.
A few train companies in England, including Great Western, Greater Anglia, Southern, and LNER, will continue to operate services.
This marks the second 24-hour walkout by Aslef in four days.
It would coincide with the final day of the Conservative conference in Manchester.
Read More: School Strikes Loom In Scotland As Weekend Negotiations Fail
It is the 14th strike by Aslef since the dispute began in June 2022 across all train operators contracted to the Department for Transport.
The union’s primary grievance is the lack of a pay raise for train drivers for over four years.
Mick Whelan, the Aslef general secretary, said there were no further discussions with the government or rail companies since April after the union rejected a “risible” offer.
The Rail Delivery Group, representing train operators, said further talks can only occur if drivers agree to alter their working conditions.
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The strike also raises concerns about potentially cancelling future HS2 high-speed train services from London to Manchester.
It could be announced by Rishi Sunak in his conference speech.
This announcement would come when no trains are running between the two cities.
Additionally, an overtime ban by drivers will continue through the week until Friday.
It’ll lead some operators to reduce schedules and increase the likelihood of last-minute cancellations.
