Tag: RMT

Renationalising South Western Railway: A New Era for Britain’s Railways

Rail is coming home

694 words, 4 minutes read time.

Britain is witnessing a historic shift on its railways. After nearly 30 years of fragmented private rail franchises, the government has begun renationalising the network, starting with South Western Railway (SWR) in May 2025. Enabled by the newly enacted Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024, this move delivers on a long-promised commitment to fix a broken system and put passengers—not profits—at the heart of our transport infrastructure.

This article explores why bringing rail back into public hands offers greater accountability, efficiency, and value. It sets out how renationalisation addresses decades of failure under privatisation, while responding to public concerns about cost and service quality.

The Failures of Rail Privatisation

When the UK railways were privatised in the mid-1990s, the public was promised cheaper fares, improved service, and a lighter burden on taxpayers. In practice, privatisation failed on every front.

Fares rose far faster than wages, with British commuters paying significantly more than their European counterparts. Infrastructure investment was inconsistent, and early safety incidents—including fatal crashes—highlighted the dangers of outsourcing to fragmented private contractors.

Public subsidy to the railways tripled during privatisation, while profits continued to flow to shareholders. Multiple operators collapsed, requiring government bailouts. A fragmented system of operators led to poor integration, delays, and confusion for passengers.

A New Legislative Framework

The Passenger Railway Services Act 2024 provides the legal foundation for returning passenger rail services to public ownership as private contracts expire. SWR became the first major franchise to make the transition. Others—including c2c and Greater Anglia—will follow, with all franchises renationalised by the end of 2027.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described the SWR transition as “a new dawn for our railways.” Early estimates suggest renationalisation will save around £150 million annually—money now available for reinvestment in services, staffing, and infrastructure.

Great British Railways: One Network, One Vision

Central to the reforms is the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), a single, publicly accountable body to manage both operations and infrastructure. GBR will replace the fragmented model with unified planning, scheduling, ticketing, and investment strategies.

This integrated approach will eliminate duplication and confusion, allowing passengers to benefit from clearer timetables, simpler fares, and better-coordinated services. GBR also creates a single point of accountability and oversight, ending the “blame game” that plagued the previous system.

Why Public Ownership Works

1. Accountability and Public Focus
Decisions will be guided by service quality, safety, and access—not shareholder return. Public ownership ensures railways are run in the national interest, with transparency and democratic oversight.

2. Reinvestment of Surplus
Profits can be reinvested in the railway, not paid out in dividends. Public ownership removes franchise fees and shareholder returns, allowing funds to go directly into improvements for passengers.

3. Integration and Efficiency
With one public body in charge, planning becomes streamlined. Infrastructure upgrades, maintenance schedules, and service expansions can be coordinated without the inefficiencies of multiple private operators.

4. Better Treatment of Staff
Public ownership offers the chance to improve working conditions, end outsourcing, and promote stable industrial relations. A motivated workforce delivers better outcomes for passengers.

5. Environmental Goals
Rail is a low-carbon mode of transport. A publicly run railway can align directly with national climate policies, investing in electrification, cleaner technologies, and greener infrastructure.

Addressing Public Concerns

Cost to taxpayers: The state was already heavily subsidising rail under privatisation. Renationalisation eliminates inefficiencies, cuts out profit extraction, and offers better value for money.

Service quality and fares: While immediate fare cuts aren’t guaranteed, reinvestment and integration will stabilise the system and improve services. Over time, these reforms should lead to better reliability, customer experience, and potentially fairer pricing.

Conclusion

Renationalising South Western Railway is more than a managerial change—it’s a decisive realignment of transport policy. With SWR as the first step and GBR leading the way, Britain is moving toward a railway that serves the public first and foremost.

This is a chance to fix the system, modernise it, and rebuild trust. With proper investment, oversight, and a clear commitment to public service, our railways can once again become a national asset—reliable, affordable, and fit for the future.

By Pat Harrington

Union News 7th of May 2024


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1,156 words, 6 minutes read time.

Welcome to Union News, your guide to what’s happening in the UK trade union and labour movement. Reporting is by Pat Harrington and music is from Tim Bragg. This week: ASLEF Train Drivers Begin More Strike Action, Jobcentre Security Guards Stage 24-Hour Strike Over Pay Dispute, Disability Rights Advocates Slam Government’s Controversial PIP Overhaul, and finally, Labour Faces Backlash as New Deal for Working People Sparks Controversy.

ASLEF Train Drivers Begin More Strike Action

Rail passengers across the United Kingdom are facing significant disruptions due to strike action as a consequence of the failure of rail companies and government to resolve a two-year-long dispute over pay and working conditions. Train drivers affiliated with the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF) are striking. The strikes have already begun and will continue on Wednesday and Thursday. Drivers are also banning overtime until Saturday, exacerbating the situation.

Southeastern, Southern, Thameslink, and Gatwick Express routes are the services affected.

The dispute centers around pay. ASLEF members have not received a pay rise in five years, leading to frustration and industrial action. formal talks between the operators and the union have not occurred for a year, making this the longest-ever rail industry dispute.

As action continues, commuters are left grappling with disrupted travel plans, and the pressure mounts on the government and rail companies involved to seek a resolution with ASLEF. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.

Jobcentre Security Guards Stage 24-Hour Strike Over Pay Dispute

In a bold move, more than 1,000 security guards employed by G4S at Jobcentres across the country are set to walk out in a 24-hour strike starting tonight. The dispute centres around pay, with guards demanding fair compensation for their crucial role.

The GMB union, representing these guards, revealed that a recent survey found alarming rates of abuse suffered by its members. Shockingly, four out of five guards reported incidents of physical violence, including dog attacks and assaults by members of the public.

But it’s not just physical harm they face. Guards also endure daily verbal abuse, ranging from threats against their families to racist slurs and even death threats.

The strike action is scheduled for multiple dates, including May 13, 20, 28, and 29. GMB national officer Eamon O’Hearn emphasized the immense pressure these guards operate under, stating, “G4S and the Department for Work and Pensions are content to let guards scrape by on minimum wage. These survey results underscore the urgent need for change.”

This marks the first time that guards have united to demand better conditions. A spokesperson for G4S expressed disappointment at the decision and stated that the company is still attempting to reach an amicable agreement.

Disability Rights Advocates Slam Government’s Controversial PIP Overhaul

In a move that has sparked heated debate, the UK government has unveiled proposals to overhaul the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system. While the government aims to address rising costs and streamline support, unions and disabled rights campaigners have raised serious objections.

Here’s what critics are saying about the proposed changes:

Charities and advocacy groups have labelled the government’s plans as “dangerous” and “reckless.” They argue that restricting access to PIP and replacing regular cash payments with other forms of provision could have devastating consequences for disabled individuals.
Concerns centre around the potential impact on vulnerable claimants who rely on consistent financial support. One-off grants may not adequately meet ongoing needs, leading to increased hardship.

The government’s emphasis on mental health conditions in the proposed reforms has drawn criticism. While it acknowledges the rise in PIP claims related to mental health, campaigners worry that the changes may inadvertently harm those with invisible disabilities3.
Critics argue that lump-sum grants may not address the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with fluctuating conditions. Regular cash payments provide stability, whereas one-off grants may fall short.

Disabled rights campaigners emphasize the need for a fair and compassionate welfare system. While the government aims to target support more accurately, critics fear that vulnerable claimants could slip through the cracks.

Removing the PIP assessment altogether for certain health conditions or disabilities may simplify bureaucracy, but it must not compromise essential assistance for those most in need.

As consultations begin, the government faces mounting pressure to strike a balance between fiscal responsibility and safeguarding the well-being of disabled individuals. The outcome of this debate will shape the future of disability benefits in the UK.

and finally, Labour Faces Backlash as New Deal for Working People Sparks Controversy

In a dramatic turn of events, several unions have issued stern warnings to the Labour Party, urging them not to dilute their proposed New Deal for Working People. Recent reports in the Financial Times suggest that the party may be reconsidering some of its earlier commitments, leading to concerns among labour advocates.

Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, minced no words: “Choosing May Day to signal a retreat from overhauling one of Europe’s worst employment rights frameworks is beyond ironic. If Labour fails to explicitly reaffirm their promise that the New Deal for Workers will be fully implemented within the first 100 days of office, they will cross a red line.”

The GMB union echoes the sentiment: “Working people are desperate for change, and we expect Labour to honour its pledges. The New Deal for Working People was agreed upon at the party’s national policy forum last summer, and Keir Starmer’s commitment to it remains crucial.”

The heart of the controversy lies in Labour’s stance on zero-hours contracts, affecting approximately 1.1 million workers in the UK. The original New Deal vowed to ban such contracts entirely, ensuring a minimum number of guaranteed hours for all. However, recent media commentary suggests a shift: Labour may not outright ban zero-hours contracts but will emphasize employers’ duty to provide contracts based on the preceding 12 weeks’ work.

A Labour spokesperson maintains that the New Deal remains a core part of their platform: “We will campaign vigorously on this ahead of the general election. Our commitment to delivering legislation within 100 days and consulting widely on implementation remains unchanged.”

The party’s revised plans align with decisions made at the national policy forum. These include creating a “single status” for all workers (except genuinely self-employed individuals) and reviewing parental leave within the first year of a Labour administration.

Trade union leaders are unyielding in their stance: “Any dilution of the New Deal for workers is wholly unacceptable. Labour must stand firm against corporate greed and prioritize the interests of working people. Attempts to water down this popular policy will face a robust response from the entire trade union movement.” – Mick Lynch, RMT General Secretary

“Working people deserve protection from business excesses, not concessions to the super-rich. We won’t accept any weakening of workers’ rights.” – Fran Heathcote, PCS General Secretary

As the debate intensifies, the fate of the New Deal hangs in the balance, with both political and practical implications for millions of workers across the country.

Union News 11th of February 2024


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934 words, 5 minutes read time.

Welcome to Union News your guide to what is happening in the UK labour and trade union movement in the UK. Writing is by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg.

Shocking Survey: Majority of Women in Defence Sector Face Sexual Harassment at Work

A damning survey conducted by the Prospect union reveals that a majority of women in the UK’s defence sector, including those at the Ministry of Defence (MoD), have experienced sexual harassment at work. The survey exposes alarming statistics, with 61% of women at the MoD, 60% at related agencies or arms bodies, and 47% in the private sector reporting incidents of sexual harassment. Prospect members have shared distressing experiences, including rape, sexual assault, and unsolicited explicit content, with few repercussions for the offenders. The findings underscore the urgent need for a cultural shift and concrete actions to address sexual harassment within the defence sector.

Amazon Faces Growing Strike: Over 1,000 Workers to Walk Out in Coventry

The GMB union announces another wave of strike action against Amazon, with over 1,000 workers expected to walk out at the Coventry site over three days next week. The ongoing dispute, now entering its second year, revolves around workers’ demands for £15 hourly wages and union rights. This marks more than 30 days of industrial action by Amazon workers in Britain, demonstrating the increasing strength of the campaign. GMB senior organiser Amanda Gearing emphasizes that the time has come for Amazon to listen to its members and meet their demands for fair wages.

RMT Takes Action Against Network Rail’s £1.2 Billion Cuts Plan

RMT members stage a day of action to protest against Network Rail’s plans to slash £1.2 billion from maintenance, infrastructure, and renewals work over the next five years. Activists distribute leaflets at over 20 stations nationwide, warning of heightened safety risks if these proposed cuts are implemented. RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch asserts that the planned cuts jeopardize safety for rail workers and passengers, emphasizing the need for increased investment rather than reductions. The action is part of the Rail Cuts Cost Lives campaign, challenging the government’s decision to cut funds for rail renewals in England, Wales, and Scotland.

Co-op Shopworker Assaults Surge: Calls for Legislation to Protect Staff

Co-op Food warns of a 33% increase in assaults on shopworkers in a year, with more than 1,300 incidents reported. The food retailer urges Tory ministers to abandon their “long-held opposition” to legislation protecting staff in the sector. The report, compiled by criminologist Professor Emmeline Taylor, details a 10-point plan to address the alarming rise in offences. Co-op Food Managing Director Matt Hood calls for MPs to pass an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill, providing shopworkers the protection they deserve. The union, Usdaw, echoes the call for stronger legislation, which already exists in Scotland.

Firefighters Face Draconian Legislation

The Crime, Policing and Fire Minister, Chris Philp, announces statutory scabbing levels of 73% for firefighters during strikes. The government insists that this measure is necessary to maintain critical services and save lives during industrial action. Fire Brigades Union (FBU) General Secretary Matt Wrack condemns the move as an “outrageous and authoritarian plan” to ban strikes in the Fire and Rescue Service. The FBU vows to resist this legislation, and TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak reaffirms the commitment of the wider trade union movement to fight against these undemocratic and draconian laws.

and finally, Government Rebuffs Offer: Junior Doctors Declare Tenth Strike with Full Walkout

In a dramatic turn of events, junior doctors in England have announced the tenth round of strike action, marking a full walkout from 7 am on Saturday, February 24, to 11.59 pm on Wednesday, February 28. Despite ongoing talks showing signs of progress, the government failed to meet the crucial deadline of February 8 to present a credible offer.

In a bid to facilitate further negotiations, junior doctors extended an offer to the Health Secretary to cancel the impending strike if she agreed to extend the mandate for strike action by four weeks. Regrettably, this offer was declined, leaving junior doctors with no alternative but to declare this as the final strike under their existing mandate.

Effective from 6.59 am on Saturday, February 24, junior doctors are instructed not to attend any shifts, persisting with the strike for shifts starting and ending on Wednesday, February 28. It is important to note that shifts commencing on Wednesday, February 28, and concluding on Thursday, February 29, should be completed in full, including the start of the shift on Wednesday.

The resolute stance taken by junior doctors underscores their commitment to addressing key concerns and securing favorable terms in ongoing negotiations with the government. As the healthcare sector braces for the impact of this comprehensive strike, the ball remains in the government’s court to revisit negotiations and respond to the needs and demands of the dedicated junior medical professionals.

Thank You

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Picture credit

Co-operative store
By Kolforn (Kolforn), CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=82346850

Union News 30th of October 2023

828 words, 4 minutes read time.

Welcome to Union News giving you reports from the trade union and labour movement in the UK. Reporting is by the Solidarity union news team and music is by Tim Bragg.

RMT Union Chief Warns of “Great Betrayal” as Ticket Office Closures Looms

Mick Lynch, the RMT union chief, has expressed concern about plans to close nearly every station ticket office in England. Travel Focus and London TravelWatch are set to present their viewpoints on this matter by October 31. Lynch highlighted that around 750,000 passengers responded to the consultation, with 98% opposing the closures. He urged watchdogs and ministers to heed passengers’ concerns and abandon job-cut plans for the sake of passenger advice, accessibility, and safety.

RMT Accuses Trainline App of Prioritizing Profit Over Affordable Train Fares

The RMT union has accused the Trainline ticketing app of prioritizing profit over offering the cheapest train fares for journeys. The app is expected to generate £200 million from British ticket sales this year and has expressed support for government plans to close ticket offices, which the union views as a profit-driven approach. RMT’s general secretary, Mick Lynch, criticizes private companies in the rail industry for profiting while the government advocates for ticket office closures. The union believes that a portion of Trainline’s revenue could be better used to properly fund the railways instead of supporting cost-cutting measures associated with ticket office closures. The Trainline app defends its approach, claiming that its search rankings are based on departure times, fastest journeys with minimal changes, and affordability. The app charges a 5% commission on ticket sales, and its CEO’s remuneration increased nearly 9% in 2023. A Trainline spokesman asserts that the app balances price and convenience when suggesting journeys to customers, and all retailers receive the same flat commission rate for online ticket sales within the industry.

Firefighter Leaders Demand Restoration of Fire Service Funding to 2010 Levels

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is urging the government to restore fire and rescue service funding to 2010 levels in order to better address increasing floods and disasters. The FBU, affiliated with the Labour Party, calls for a reversal of 13 years of Tory austerity, which has led to the closure of fire stations, reduction in appliances, and a 20% cut in firefighter jobs. The FBU recently reported a situation in which delayed response due to cost-cutting measures resulted in the loss of homes. The FBU is set to launch a firefighters’ manifesto outlining their vision for the future of fire and rescue services. General Secretary Matt Wrack stressed the need for Labour’s shadow chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to restore funding to prevent communities from being “failed by another generation of politicians.” Wrack also emphasized the importance of addressing the damage caused by austerity and the urgent need to improve response times and firefighter resources. He called for funding restoration to be a priority in Labour’s first term in office, as signalled by recent by-election results.

Second Cost of Living Payment 2023/24

The government is helping a little with the cost of living for 2023/24. The Cost of Living payment is £900 paid in three instalments across the year:
First payment of £301 was paid during Spring 2023
Second instalment of £300 will be paid during Autumn 2023
Third instalment of £299 will be paid by Spring 2024
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced the dates for the second instalment of £300. This amount will be paid to households entitled to certain benefits during qualifying periods.

Most qualified people will be paid between 31 October and 19 November 2023. Payments will be made automatically.

and finally, UK Government’s Plan for Minimum Service Levels in Schools Sparks Union Criticism

The UK government is poised to implement minimum service levels (MSLs) in schools and colleges, a move criticized by education unions as an attack on the democratic freedoms of school leaders and teachers. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has invited union leaders to discuss the MSL proposals voluntarily, but she has made it clear that the government will utilize powers granted through the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act if no voluntary agreement is reached. This would trigger a consultation involving various MSL models for education, allowing input from parents, teachers, and other stakeholders.

Pat Harrington, General Secretary of Solidarity union, voiced his concerns, saying, “The introduction of Minimum Service Levels is a worrying development that threatens the fundamental right to strike. It is essential that democratic freedoms are upheld in any regulations governing MSLs. The government must prioritize constructive dialogue and engagement with unions to address the root causes of industrial action.”

The proposed measures have drawn strong opposition from education unions, who argue that MSLs infringe on the right to strike. The government’s history of dealing with issues related to education, such as pay, workload, and recruitment and retention, has raised concerns among unions. The unions contend that a focus on improving working conditions and addressing longstanding issues in education is crucial.

Union News 26 February 2023

Union News brings you weekly reports from the Trade Union and labour movement in the UK

Welcome to Union News a podcast with reports from the labour and Trade Union movement in the UK. This week: Workers strike and protest in Ulster, London Underground drivers to join strikes on budget day, UK Workers Lost £26 Billion in Unpaid Overtime Last Year, Thousands march for peace in London, RMT members reignite trade unionism in Britain, says Mick Lynch at young members’ conference and TUC warns energy bills will eat up a tenth of UK workers’ salary from April. Music in the podcast is by Tim Bragg.

Union News 5th of February 2023

Labour MP Dan Jarvis is fighting for the rights of pregnant women Union News reports

Welcome to Union News – a podcast giving news from the trade unions and labour movement in the United Kingdom. In this edition, UK Unions Rally for Fair Pay in Widespread Demonstrations and Strikes Across Britain, Rail Strike Could Last Years Say Unions, Royal Mail Accused of Lacking Integrity as Communication Workers Union Announces Strike, New Bill to Boost Workplace Protection for Pregnant Women and New Parents Passes House of Commons, Union Leader Calls for Suspension of Deputy PM Over Bullying Claims and finally Join the Fight Against Anti-Union Bias in the Reactionary Media.

UK Unions Rally for Fair Pay in Widespread Demonstrations and Strikes Across Britain

The largest day of industrial action in decades took place on Wednesday, with around half a million workers including teachers, university workers, civil service workers, and train drivers going on strike. The marches and rallies were well-attended, with reports suggesting that new, young activists were emerging on the picket lines and rallies. Anger against the government was palpable, with workers feeling the effects of attacks on pensions, wages, and working conditions. The strikes were largely successful, with minimal signs of scabbing and public anger overwhelmingly directed not at strikers but rightly at the, culprits in our misgovernment. However, different groups of workers are at different stages in terms of strategy and escalation. The strikers must continue to push for longer and bigger strikes, demanding further united action and coordination.

There were widespread rallies and marches across Britain alongside the mass strike. Thousands of people participated in the rallies and marches in various cities, including Sheffield, Bristol, Leeds , Nottingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and Glasgow. The demonstrations were attended by various unions, including RMT, Aslef, PCS, NEU, Unison, UCU, and the GMB, as well as family and friends of union members. The rallies were aimed at demanding fair pay and were marked by speeches attacking Labour leader Keir Starmer’s lack of support for the strikes. Patrick Harrington, General Secretary of the Solidarity union, commented: “The rallies were strong and large and can be built on. Better transport arrangements to bring people to the demonstrations, better advance promotion of the demonstration assembly points and paid advertising have the potential to build really large presence on the streets”.

Rail Strike Could Last Years Say Unions

The UK National Rail strikes, organized by train drivers’ union Aslef and transport union RMT over pay, jobs, and working conditions, may continue for years. Aslef’s General Secretary, Mick Whelan, stated that his members haven’t had a wage increase since 2019. The strikes resulted in major parts of the country having no rail services as multiple operators could not run trains. The rail unions have accused Downing Street of blocking a deal to end the strikes, and the talks between the Rail Delivery Group and the unions have reportedly gone backwards since the dispute began last summer.

Royal Mail Accused of Lacking Integrity as Communication Workers Union Announces Strike

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has accused Royal Mail bosses of lacking integrity during a dispute over jobs and working conditions. The CWU announced a 24-hour strike on February 16, involving over 115,000 workers, in response to Royal Mail management forcing through changes related to work structure in direct contravention of pre-existing agreements with the union. The reforms also remove the union’s right to negotiate at a local level. The General Secretary of the CWU, Dave Ward, stated that the strike is due to the conduct of management and called for the company to take negotiations seriously. Royal Mail, however, accused the union of not being interested in resolving the dispute.

New Bill to Boost Workplace Protection for Pregnant Women and New Parents Passes House of Commons

A new bill aimed at improving workplace protection for pregnant women and new parents passed the House of Commons unopposed. The Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Bill, sponsored by Labour MP Dan Jarvis, aims to extend employment rights for new mothers and mothers-to-be by protecting them against redundancy for a longer period. The bill would create new powers to protect women from redundancy during and after pregnancy and amend existing regulations to protect parents from redundancy on their return from maternity, adoption, or shared parental leave. The bill requires employers to prioritize soon-to-be and new parents in a redundancy situation and offer them a suitable alternative vacancy if their job is at risk. The bill will now undergo further scrutiny in the House of Lords.

Union Leader Calls for Suspension of Deputy PM Over Bullying Claims

The leader of a union representing senior Whitehall officials has stated that civil servants who were allegedly bullied by Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab have experienced “mental health crises” and lost their careers. Dave Penman, general secretary of FDA, denied allegations that the complaints against Raab were politically motivated. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has appointed lawyer Adam Tolley to investigate the bullying claims against Raab, with around 50 civil servants involved in 8 formal complaints. Penman has called for Raab to be suspended during the probe.

Penman also expressed surprise at senior Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg’s warning against being “too snowflakey” about bullying allegations. The union leader emphasized that bullying behaviour can have serious consequences on an individual’s mental health and life, and it is unacceptable for such behaviour to be belittled.

and finally Join the Fight Against Anti-Union Bias in the Reactionary Media

Union News is calling on all workers and union members to join the fight against the negative portrayal of the labour community by Mainstream Media. The recent attack on teachers by the Daily Mail serves as a clear example of the anti-union bias in reactionary media.

We’re building a network of correspondents who can provide regular local labour and trade union news. This includes shop floor and office news, news related to your trade and profession, and news from the picket line.

Union News believes in positive action and the only way to challenge Mainstream Media’s negative portrayal of the labour community is by building an alternative media source.

If you have local labour & trade union news, send it via the comments section on your preferred social media platform or e-mail us privately at UnionNewsServices@protonmail.com. Let’s create a more accurate representation of the labour community together!

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Nurses stand strong on picket lines

Thousands of nurses in England went on strike for a second time yesterday , with picket lines reported to be large and lively and receiving massive public support. The nurses, who are members of the RCN union, are fighting for a larger pay rise than the £1,400 a year below inflation payment that was imposed on them by the government last year. The strikes are part of an effort to defend the NHS, which is currently facing a daily struggle. Activists from other unions such as NEU, Unite, RMT and UCU also came to show their support for the striking nurses.

Our video shows a lively picket braving freezing weather at UCU in London.

Video credit: RovingReporter

Union News 7th January 2023

Union News is a source for news and information about the UK union and labour movement. It is dedicated to providing accurate and unbiased coverage of these issues, which are often overlooked or misrepresented in mainstream media. By sharing links and following Union News on platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube, you can help to support this alternative source of information and build a counter media that accurately represents the experiences and concerns of working people. If you have news to share, Union News welcomes submissions and encourages you to get in touch. You can contact Union News here: UnionNewsServices@protonmail.com

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Union News 21 December 2022

Trade Union News. Here’s a round up of the latest trade union and labour related news from around the UK. In this programme: NHS Staff March on Downing Street, Train Drivers to Strike, Christmas Post Truce Rejected By Management, Ambulance Workers Pledge To Maintain Essential cover and Union Leaders Meet To Discuss a unified day of strikes.

NHS Staff March on Downing Street

NHS staff and campaigners marched on Downing Street yesterday as picketing nurses were greeted with outpourings of public support in towns and cities across the country.
The march was organised jointly by campaign groups NHS Workers Say No! and NHS Staff Voices which are part of the Keep Our NHS Public campaign.
Spirits were high on nurses’ picket lines nationwide, with many people honking their horns in encouragement as they passed by.

Train Drivers to Strike

Train drivers represented by their Union, Aslef, will go on strike on Thursday January 5, joining RMT members who are scheduled to walk out on January 3, 4, 6 and 7.
This is a result of a new ballot that was forced on them by government anti-strike laws. The mandate was even stronger than in the original ballot six months ago – 93 per cent for strike action on an 85 per cent turnout.
The drivers’ strike will halt services at 15 train companies including Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia and GTR Great Northern Thameslink.
Aslef general secretary Mick Whelan said: “We don’t want to go on strike but the companies have pushed us into this place.”

Christmas Post Truce Rejected By Management

The Communication Workers Union has announced that postal workers will be striking on December 23 and 24, after Royal Mail rejected their offer of a Christmas truce.
The union had sought to get Royal Mail to sign a joint agreement incorporating the company’s latest promise of no compulsory redundancies, but the offer was rejected almost immediately.
This will be the 17th and 18th day of action in the dispute over pay, and is likely to cause significant delays in mail delivery during the festive period.

Ambulance Workers Pledge To Maintain Essential cover

GMB national secretary Rachel Harrison said that unions representing ambulance workers had been working “round the clock” to ensure there were enough strike exemptions to keep critical services running.
Tens of thousands of ambulance staff including paramedics and call handlers are expected to walk out today in a dispute over pay.
Speaking to MPs on the Commons health and social care select committee, Ms Harrison said strike action would go ahead unless Health Secretary Steve Barclay is willing to talk about pay.
The GMB leader said that “essential” parts of the service will still be covered today, including responses for the most life-threatening conditions, like cardiac arrest.
Ms Harrison told MPs that ambulance workers have been forced to take strike action after raising concerns for years about ambulance delays and unsafe conditions for patients as well as pay.

And finally, Union Leaders Meet To Discuss a unified day of strikes

According to a report in Socialist Worker Trade union leaders are planning to call a unified day of strikes on Wednesday 1 February, which could involve over a million workers. Union leaders met last week to discuss whether some sort of joint action was possible, and agreed to reconvene on 10 January when a final decision could be made.


This plan is a sign of the potential for powerful struggles to transform British politics says the report.

Episode Notes

Thanks for listening to this episode of Union News. Don’t forget to like & share to spread news of the labour and trade union movement in the UK. You can also send us news, soundclips, photos and video footage by email. Our email is given in the show notes. Please email: UnionNewsServices@protonmail.com

Our music is provided by Tim Bragg. Tim is a multi-instrumentalist & singer-songwriter. You can hear his songs here: – or any streaming service or on YouTube.

Ambulance picture credit: Florian, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0

, via Wikimedia Commons