Rail strike suspended to allow for fresh talks

A strike by conductors and train managers at East Midlands Railway (EMR) has been suspended to allow new talks.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) were due to take action on Friday and Saturday over safety, pay and conditions.

The union said it was working on new proposals but warned of action later this month if the dispute is not resolved.

The RMT said: “The union has constantly been trying to resolve this dispute and we are currently preparing proposals to be put to the company, which we believe will allow for a resolution to be found to the dispute.

“Therefore, the industrial action due to take place is suspended. This is to allow further talks to take place. However, the union will set out further strike dates for later this month, which will be communicated to members in good time. This is to ensure management negotiate with the union in good faith and to focus the company’s mind in meeting our demands.”

An EMR spokesperson said: “We have received notification of the RMT’s decision to suspend the strike action.

“Given the extremely short notice of the decision, EMR will continue to operate a reduced timetable on 3 and 4 December.”