Talks between the RMT union and Network Rail collapsed for the third time in as many weeks on Thursday, leaving millions of commuters facing the prospect of severely reduced services throughout August. The union is seeking a 7.2 per cent pay rise for its members, citing the rising cost of living and what it describes as "years of real-terms pay cuts." Network Rail has offered 4.5 per cent, which it says is the maximum available without further government funding.
The dispute has already cost the rail industry an estimated £180 million in lost revenue since the first walkout in April. Passenger numbers on affected routes have dropped by around 30 per cent on strike days, with many commuters switching to cars or working from home where possible. Transport for London has reported a corresponding increase in bus usage, though some routes have struggled to cope with the additional demand.
The Department for Transport said in a statement that it "urges both parties to return to the table in good faith." A spokesperson declined to comment on whether additional funding might be made available to bridge the gap between the two positions. The RMT's general secretary, in a video posted to social media on Friday, accused the government of "hiding behind Network Rail" and called on ministers to intervene directly.
August bank holiday weekend is expected to be particularly badly affected, with the union having served notice of a 48-hour stoppage beginning on the Saturday. Several train operating companies have already advised passengers to avoid non-essential travel on those dates.