RMT union to stop Network Rail train strike after pay offer

RMT union says it has decided to suspend all industrial action by workers

Mick Lynch, secretary general of the Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers. EPA

All industrial action by Network Rail employees who are members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers union has been suspended after they received a new pay offer.

“The RMT national executive committee has taken the decision to suspend all industrial action on Network Rail following receipt of a new offer from the employer," the union said on Tuesday.

“Further updates will be given on all aspects of the national rail dispute in the coming days.”

Members of the RMT have been taking part in strikes for months in a dispute over pay, jobs and conditions.

In February, RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said the union would take “sustained and targeted industrial action over the next few months” as employers are “not being given a fresh mandate by the government” to offer a new deal.

Union members working at Network Rail were due to strike next on March 16.

Rail strikes return in Britain - in pictures

A near empty platform at London Euston train station on Thursday morning, as Britain's railways were hit by further strikes. PA

Mick Lynch, general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union, on the picket line outside London Euston train station. PA

Commuters wait on a platform at Clapham Junction in London. AFP

A sign with information regarding strike action at London Waterloo railway station. Bloomberg

Commuters arrive on one of the limited running services at London Waterloo railway station in London. Bloomberg

A passenger checks the departure boards at a quiet London Euston train station. PA

A commuter looks at signs with information about strike action at the entrance to Waterloo East railway station in London. Bloomberg

Former Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, MP for Coventry South, join the picket line outside London Euston train station. PA