News that rail workers in England and Scotland are moving towards industrial action has seen the UK government reportedly draw up plans to counter the effects on passengers and food distribution. This could involved imposing a minimum service level on rail workers, effectively curbing their right to strike. But aside from questions over how this would work practically and legally, there’s good reason to believe such measures would only make the situation worse.
On May 24 2022, the results of the 17 industrial action ballots from the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers showed overwhelming support for action. If the mandates are implemented, this coordinated industrial action is set to trigger what the unions are dubbing a “summer of discontent”. The disruption could extend northwards too, as rail workers in Scotland ballot for action as well despite Scotrail being in public ownership since April 1 2022.
Both north and south of the border, workers are concerned about pay rises, workloads and job security. Government proposals for rail reform are predicted to see massive cuts in jobs and ticket offices.
