Train strikes called off as rail workers from RMT union announce suspension of chaos

A series of strikes by railway workers have been suspended after the RMT enter negotiations over a pay dispute. The strikes were planned for 5, 7, and 9 November and were set to include staff at Network Rail, causing chaos across the network.

A representative for RMT made the announcement on Twitter, writing: “RMT suspends strikes after securing intensive negotiations with rail bosses.

“@RMTUnion has suspended planned strikes on Nov 5, 7 and 9 and will now enter into a period of intensive negotiations with Network Rail and the train operating companies.”

The strikes were called over disputes of jobs, pay and conditions and first started in June.

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.”

He added that RMT plans remain “very much live” and a re-ballot for further strikes will conclude on 15 November.

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Despite the news, there is still expected to be “severe” disruptions on Saturday due to the short notice.

Travel expert Simon Calder tweeted: “Rail strikes called off with 10 hours notice but there will still be severe disruption on Saturday, quite a lot on Monday, and some on Sunday and Wednesday. RMT says progress made. Strikes on 5, 7, 9 November won’t now happen – but the dispute remains live.”

Trains have been brought to a halt in recent months over the dispute, with passengers experiencing extreme delays.