Christmas Strike by Avanti West Coast Train Managers Called Off

The RMT rail union has announced the cancellation of planned strike action by Avanti West Coast train managers scheduled for the Christmas period. These industrial actions, which were disclosed earlier this week, were initially set for December 22, 23, and 29; however, they will no longer proceed. According to the union, a revised proposal has been extended and will now be presented to train managers for consideration. Even if this offer is declined, legal requirements mandate that unions provide at least two weeks’ notice before initiating strike action, meaning no such action could occur before the new year. A spokesman for the union stated that the updated offer encompasses increased payments for working on rest days and modifications to other employment conditions, such as a more structured assignment of duties on rest days. The RMT indicated that train managers are scheduled to vote on the proposal via a referendum concluding on December 17. Typically, train managers maintain a 41-hour work week, but staff shortages can lead to requests for them to work on their designated days off. The RMT had previously characterized this particular situation as “unacceptable.” Approximately 300 train managers were anticipated to participate in the industrial action, which would have resulted in restricted train services on the three affected days. Avanti operates routes connecting London with Glasgow and Edinburgh, as well as serving stations such as Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester. Avanti West Coast expressed that it was “pleased that the RMT have decided to suspend these strikes which would have caused major disruption to our services.” The company further stated, “This will come as a relief to our customers who were making travel plans over the Christmas period,” and confirmed its continued willingness to engage in discussions with the union. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.