Rail union members to vote on deal that could finally END strikes over Christmas

RAIL union members are to vote on a deal that could end strikes over Christmas, providing a huge boost to the hospitality sector.

Workers with the RMT are being offered back-dated pay rises and job security measures.

Members need to approve the deal by ballot at the end of the month but boss Mick Lynch called it a “welcome development”.

The move was backed by UKHospitality boss Kate Nicholls, who said the looming threat of strikes was knocking confidence, with almost half of businesses saying bookings were down on this time last year.

She said: “Christmas will have come early if this breakthrough saves the valuable festive period for the sector.”

It is understood RMT members are being offered a back-dated pay rise of five per cent and job security guarantees until the end of 2024.

The rail industry and Government had demanded reforms to working practices to cut costs.

The reform agenda will now be delayed until next year.

The Government said: “We hope RMT members will recognise the benefits, accept this offer and put an end to industrial action.”

A dispute with Aslef train drivers continues.