Transport Minister Mark Harper described the union’s decision as “incredibly disappointing”, while when asked to comment on the strike announcement Nick Gibb, Under Secretary of State for Education, accused the RMT of “holding” the country to ransom.
London: Thanasis Gavos
On strike since 6 p.m Christmas Eve to 6 a.m. on December 27 announced that British rail workers would walk out.
This is a decision of the members of the large trade union Union Rail, Maritime and other Transport (RMT).
The strike in those days is intended to intensify pressure on rail companies to raise the level of increases to their employees amid inflation exceeding 11%.
The inconvenience for passengers will mainly concern Christmas Eve, as there are very few services on Christmas Day and the 26th. However, extensive maintenance work on the railway network was planned for this two-day period, which will now not take place.
Two more 48-hour strikes by workers at 14 major rail companies confirmed to take place next week.
RMT general secretary Mick Lynch commented that it was unfortunate that members were “forced” to make these decisions, saying he was open to further talks to reach an agreement.
Transport Minister Mark Harper described the union’s decision as “incredibly disappointing”, while when asked to comment on the strike announcement Nick Gibb, Under Secretary of State for Education, accused the RMT of “holding” the country to ransom.
The issue of railway strikes will be discussed in Tuesday’s cabinet under Chief Minister Rishi Sunak.
The rail strikes are just one of dozens of protests planned for December and January in Britain.
The strikes expected to cause the biggest problems are those of NHS nursing staff, firefighters, bus drivers and national road maintenance workers.
They and many other sectors of workers, both in the public and private sectors, are demanding higher raises to address the country’s exorbitant cost of living crisis.
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With a wealth of experience honed over 4+ years in journalism, I bring a seasoned voice to the world of news. Currently, I work as a freelance writer and editor, always seeking new opportunities to tell compelling stories in the field of world news.
