North East Labour politicians backed striking train drivers at Newcastle's Central Station on Saturday, with figures including North of Tyne mayor Jamie Driscoll and Jarrow MP Kate Osborne urging rail bosses back to the negotiating table - and saying: "Enough is enough."
As a day of industrial action from members of train drivers' union Aslef progressed, figures both the union and the rail industry confirmed further talks were likely to happen this week. This comes after the 24-hour strike action was taken over issues including jobs, pay and working conditions. Train drivers across nine companies - including LNER and CrossCountry - were involved in the walkout which saw vastly reduced services from Newcastle.
Staff at other firms - including Northern and Trans-Pennine Express - are currently being balloted over similar action. On the eve of the strikes, Aslef general secretary Mick Whelan said train companies were unable to offer a pay rise without the permission of the Department for Transport, but the Government was insisting it had nothing to do with them.
