Train strikes: Rail drivers walkout set for next week

Train drivers belonging to the ASLEF union announced two further strike dates in pursuit of a demand for higher pay plus guarantees on jobs and working arrangements. 

On Wednesday, February 1 and Friday, February 3, no Great Northern, Thameslink, Southern or Gatwick Express services will be running. 

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Services on Thursday, February 2 and Saturday, February 4, will also experience some delays as the trains will start later than normal with none running before 7am. 

Some train services might run later than 7am. 

📢 National industrial action is taking place on 1 & 3 February, NO trains will run on these days.

On 2 & 4 February, our trains will only start after 07:00, with some stations starting much later than this. Make sure you plan ahead.

ℹ️ More info 👇 https://t.co/xQGVwS3Qu0 pic.twitter.com/U9ROgaf2Lo

— Great Northern (@GNRailUK) January 25, 2023

Rail unions said that their members have been denied pay rises for the last three years. 

The pay offer made by the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) and agreed by the government, involved a pay increase of 4 per cent for 2022 and 2023, contingent on modernisation. 

This offer was flatly rejected by the union.  

RMT said: “The decision to strike on February 1 coincides with a TUC day of action where several unions are coordinating their strikes during the cost-of-living crisis.” 

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: "Our negotiations will continue with the rail operators to create a package on jobs, conditions and pay that can be offered to our members." 

More information on the industrial action can be found here: https://www.greatnorthernrail.com/travel-information/plan-your-journey/industrial-action