Train strikes breakthrough hope as unions and firms knuckle down on new deal

12 January 2023 , 17:26

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Mick Lynch of the RMT leaves talks in London today aimed at settling strike action (Image: Ian Vogler / Daily Mirror)

Hopes rose tonight of a breakthrough after eight months of rail strikes as train operators and unions began fresh talks on a deal.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said he was “working jointly towards a revised offer” with the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) after four hours of negotiations in London.

The TSSA union made a similar statement after separate talks, adding: “Both parties have agreed to continue discussions over the coming days."

Talks are expected to continue next week.

It is thought there was some movement on pay from the RDG - which represents train companies - after Tory ministers gave them a new negotiating mandate.

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It is thought there was some movement on pay from the RDG (AFP via Getty Images)

Senior government officials now hope the rail strikes could be the first of the major walkouts to be resolved this year.

But union officials warned talks were still in their early stages and could fall through. Mr Lynch said: “We haven't got an offer so we'll leave it for another day."

The RMT will only consider an offer if it is put in writing. If it does not cross the union’s red lines, it will be put to members in a referendum.

Mr Lynch told reporters: "We are working jointly towards a revised offer for their section of the dispute.

"We've agreed that over the next couple of days we'll continue to work on that through discussions, and we'll see what comes of it.

"And that's all we can say at this time I'm afraid."

Dan Bloom