MONITORING DESK
ISLAMABAD: A fresh round of strikes after the Christmas break by United Kingdom’s rail workers on Tuesday left train stations across the country deserted. Nearly 50 percent of rail lines were closed while just 20 percent were running.
Workers, who are Rail, Maritime and Transport union members, have differences with the government and rail companies and government over working and pay conditions.
The strikes have frustrated many passengers, however, some are supportive of demands being made by the workers.
RMT Union’s Secretary-General Mick Lynch insists that the government is responsible for the current stalemate.
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Lynch said that the union had given a notice of three weeks, however, the opposing side neither tried to broker a deal nor sought a settlement. This state of affairs had disappointed the union.
He added that in his opinion even the passengers must not be happy with the government’s inaction
Lynch went on to say that it’s the government which has the key to solving the issue, however, they at present not willing to use it.
UK minister urges rail workers to negotiate
In response, Mark Harper, UK’s Transport Secretary, called on union leaders to start negotiations with the government. He added that the government had already offered a pay that is very fair.
Later in the week, more rail disruptions are expected as the train drivers’ ASLEF union is set to stage a walkout.
