National rail strikes called off by RMT union

Rail union RMT has suspended planned strikes on Nov 5, 7 and 9 and will now enter into a period of negotiations with Network Rail and the train operating companies.

RMT has secured unconditional talks on Network Rail and the promise of an offer from the train operating companies.

RMT said it was striking because Network Rail was imposing changes to maintenance terms without agreement.

The union said the dispute remains live and it is continuing its re-ballot of members to secure a fresh mandate for action with the result due on November 15.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “The threat of strike action and our strongly supported industrial campaign has made the rail employers see sense.

“We have always wanted to secure a negotiated settlement and that is what we will continue to push for in this next phase of intensive talks.

“Our priority is our members, and we are working towards securing a deal on job security, a decent pay rise and good working conditions. 

“Our re-ballot remains live and if we have to take strike action during the next 6 months to secure a deal, we will.”

A spokesman for the Rail Delivery Group, said: “It is positive that the RMT leadership have stepped back from the brink and called off their strike action.

“Unfortunately, the late notice means that while train companies are working hard to reinstate services, they will remain severely disrupted for our passengers tomorrow and into the early part of next week.

“Our advice remains to please check before you travel and on Saturday and Monday, only travel by rail if necessary.

“We remain committed to intensive negotiations to agree the reforms needed to improve reliability, deliver a pay rise for our people and get the industry back on a sustainable financial footing.”

Pictured: Paddington Station (Picture: Rail Delivery Group)