No more rail strikes as RMT union members back pay deal

The threat of further widespread train strikes has been lifted after union members voted overwhelmingly for a new pay deal with train companies and Network Rail.

It was confirmed that members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) had joined their driver colleagues within the ASLEF union in accepting new offers after more than two years of sporadic disruption to services.

The RMT said its membership backed a one-year rise of 4.5% at Network Rail and increases at train operators of 4.75% for the last year and 4.5% for 2024/25.

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Almost 99% of train company members voted in favour while NR workers backed their pay rise by 88%.

It is the latest dispute to be resolved since Labour came to power in July, promising to end stalemates over pay deals that have led to industrial action across other key services including the NHS.

A separate announcement also confirmed train drivers had voted to accept the latest pay offer from ScotRail after weeks of reduced timetables amid driver shortages.

An RMT statement said of its ballot: "This outcome reflects the collective efforts of our membership in defending their jobs, working conditions, pay, and pensions from the attacks of the previous Tory government and their private contractors.

"We thank our members for their efforts during this long but successful campaign.

"Their resolve has been essential in navigating the challenges posed during negotiations and in particular the previous Tory government's refusal to negotiate in good faith, alongside relentless attacks by sections of the media and the employers.

"RMT remains focused and committed to supporting public ownership as a path to building a stronger future for the rail industry for both workers and passengers."

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Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said of the vote: "This is a necessary step towards fixing our railways and getting the country moving.

"It will ensure a more reliable service by helping to protect passengers from national strikes, and crucially, it clears the way for vital reform and modernising working practices to ensure a better performing railway for everyone."

(c) Sky News 2024: No more rail strikes as RMT union members back pay deal