RMT Union and Train Operators Reach Temporary Deal; Strike Action May Pause Over Christmas if Members Accept Pay Rise and Job Security Offer

Memorandum of Understanding proposes a 5% pay increase and no compulsory redundancies until end of 2024; members to vote on deal by 30 November, potentially ending 18-month dispute and disrupting holiday strike action.

The RMT Union and train operators have reached a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that could potentially end the 18-month long dispute, including planned strike action over the holiday period if union members accept the proposed deal.
The offer includes a 5% pay increase for 2022, backdated to January, or equivalent to about £1,750, for RMT members, and pledges no compulsory redundancies until the end of 2024.
RMT boss Mick Lynch has voiced his support for the deal, terming it a 'welcome development,' further emphasizing that the union members will be voting on the deal through an online referendum which closes on 30 November 2023.
Should the offer be accepted, the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), which represents operators, stated that the national dispute mandate would be terminated, offering respite from industrial action into spring next year and allowing continued negotiations on proposed railway reforms.
Despite the developments in the RMT's dispute, a separate dispute involving train drivers in the ASLEF union remains unresolved, indicating possibility of walkouts over Christmas if not addressed.