TfL supervisor reportedly refused to remove “Free Palestine” graffiti at Bank Station, sparking debate over neutrality and free speech.
November 4, 2025 | London – PalPlus News
A Transport for London (TfL) Customer Service Supervisor has faced criticism after allegedly refusing to remove “Free Palestine” graffiti at a London Underground station, instead expressing support for it, according to a report by UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI).
The incident reportedly occurred on August 10, 2025, when a passenger noticed the phrase “Free Palestine” written on a Service Information board at the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) escalators in Bank Station. After failing to find staff on-site, the passenger’s friend reported the graffiti at nearby Liverpool Street Station.
Shortly after, a TfL Customer Service Supervisor—identified as wearing a “Palestine Solidarity” badge featuring the Palestinian flag and the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) Union logo—approached the complainant with another staff member. When asked to remove the graffiti, the supervisor reportedly declined, saying there “should be more signs like it.”
The passenger later told UKLFI they felt “harassed, intimidated, and unsafe” following the exchange.
Complaint Filed Under UK Equality Act
In a formal complaint, UKLFI accused the TfL employee of harassment under Section 29(3) of the Equality Act 2010, arguing the supervisor’s conduct created a “hostile environment” for Jewish and ‘Israeli’ passengers.
UKLFI Director Caroline Turner condemned the incident, stating:
“It is unacceptable for public transport staff to make passengers feel unsafe or fail to perform their duties due to personal political beliefs. TfL must enforce neutrality and take disciplinary action where necessary.”
As of publication, TfL has not issued an official response to the report. The case has sparked a wider discussion in the UK about freedom of expression, political neutrality, and solidarity with Palestine in public service roles.
