Rail workers set to drag on strikes for another six months of misery for travellers

RAIL workers have voted to drag on their strikes for another six months of misery for travellers.

Militant RMT boss Mick Lynch said the backing for walkouts until at least Christmas was a “de facto referendum” which showed the “huge anger” among rail workers.

He said: “It is clear members are not prepared to accept a pay offer based on mass job cuts and major attacks on their terms and conditions.

"This sends a clear message that employers need to face reality and make improved proposals.”

Train operators have offered a five per cent pay hike for last year and four per cent for 2023.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said he was “disappointed” by the RMT decision and urged it to let members vote directly on the deal.

He said: “Train companies put forward a fair and reasonable pay offer which the RMT’s executive have refused to consult their members on, despite members working for Network Rail voting overwhelmingly to accept it earlier this year.”

Employers the Rail Delivery Group said: “Instead of continuing to hold the country to ransom, we call on the RMT executive to quickly think again and put the deal out to a democratic vote so that members can finally have their say.”