A Treasury minister has described a new pay offer for train drivers as a “good deal for the taxpayer,” asserting it will prevent further strikes despite opposition concerns about potential fare increases or tax hikes.
The proposed agreement, which Aslef union members will vote on, includes a backdated 5% pay increase for 2019 to 2022, a 4.75% rise for 2022 to 2024, and an additional 4.5% increase for 2024 to 2025.
Both Aslef and the Government have praised the offer as a significant breakthrough, aiming to avert more industrial action by public sector workers. However, the Tories argue that it demonstrates ministers have “caved to the unions.”
Train drivers are being urged to accept the offer, which would conclude a two-year dispute marked by 18 strike days and refusals to work non-contractual overtime, causing considerable passenger disruption.
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones told broadcasters:
“Resetting the relationship between Government and public sector workers in this instance is a good deal for the taxpayer because we are preventing strikes from happening.
“There is a direct cost to the economy if the strikes continue and we need to work together in partnership with workers, trade unions, and businesses to restore sustainable growth to the economy.
“So, this is a good deal for the taxpayer and a good deal for the economy.”
The new pay offer for train drivers has sparked concerns about its potential impact on fares. Critics argue that the deal while preventing further strikes, might lead to higher train fares or tax hikes to cover the increased costs. The proposed agreement includes a backdated 5% pay increase for 2019 to 2022, a 4.75% rise for 2022 to 2024, and an additional 4.5% increase for 2024 to 2025.
Although the Government and Aslef have hailed the offer as a major breakthrough, with the aim of ending a two-year dispute and significant disruption caused by 18 strike days, the Tories claim it demonstrates that ministers have “caved to the unions.”
