Further talks over train drivers’ pay are understood to be taking place today between ASLEF and the Department for Transport. However, the operators represented by the Rail Delivery Group are not involved.
If the talks succeed, they will bring a long series of strikes to an end. The union had complained repeatedly that the previous Conservative government had refused to negotiate after a pay offer was rejected in April last year.
That offer had included a series of 4 percent pay rises, but with these came controversial changes to rosters and other arrangements. These included a bid to end discretionary Sunday working by introducing a seven-day working week.
Several operators have claimed that a lack of drivers on Sundays had caused cancellations, while the final of the Euros on 14 July was said to have had a similar effect.
After Labour was elected last month, transport secretary Louise Haigh said she was committed to ‘resetting’ industrial relations.
Neither side has commented in advance of the new talks.
ASLEF pay talks resume
14th August 2024