Rail strikes to go ahead after union members reject latest pay offer

Union members from Network Rail have voted overwhelmingly to reject the latest offer from company bosses.

Around 63.6% of RMT members voted to turn down the deal on an 83% turnout.

In a statement, the union said the offer included a 5% pay rise this year and 4% in 2023. However, it would also see thousands of job losses, a 50% cut in scheduled maintenance tasks and a 30% increase in unsocial hours.

It means that all strike action involving Network Rail and 14 train operating companies scheduled for 13, 14, 16 and 17 December and January 3, 4, 6 and 7 will go ahead as planned.

Workers will also strike from 6pm Christmas Eve until 6am December 27, specifically targeting engineering works.

RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch said: “This is a huge rejection of Network Rail’s substandard offer and shows that our members are determined to take further strike action in pursuit of a negotiated settlement.

“The government is refusing to lift a finger to prevent these strikes and it is clear they want to make effective strike action illegal in Britain.

“We will resist that and our members, along with the entire trade union movement will continue their campaign for a square deal for workers, decent pay increases and good working conditions.”