RMT Strikes: Impact on Businesses

Debate between Baroness Blake of Leeds and Lord Sharpe of Epsom

Tuesday 28th April 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Sharpe of Epsom]

To ask His Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the impact on businesses, particularly high street businesses, of the RMT strikes on London Underground services which took place in April 2026 and are planned again for May and June; and what steps they are taking to mitigate any such impact.

[Baroness in Waiting/Government Whip (Baroness Blake of Leeds) (Lab)]

My Lords, transport in London is devolved to the mayor and Transport for London, and any impacts of strike action on London’s transport network are for TfL to assess and manage. Nevertheless, the Government understand that this is extremely disappointing for passengers and businesses, and we encourage all sides to work together to resolve disputes as quickly as possible.

[Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)]

My Lords, I am grateful to the Minister for the Answer, but yesterday the RMT’s general secretary threatened to maximise strike disruption nationwide. This month’s Tube strikes have already cost small businesses an estimated £760 million. Do the Government now regret removing the 50% strike ballot threshold in the Employment Rights Act, thereby guaranteeing strike action across the country, at immense cost to small businesses?

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

I wonder if the noble Lord has forgotten how much money and revenue was lost during strike actions under the previous Government. We have to remember that the Secretary of State, when she came in, took swift action to deal with this, and I am pleased to say that the incidences have reduced dramatically. Obviously, there are discussions going on with RMT; it would be completely inappropriate for me to discuss that at the Dispatch Box.