Railway workers to stage series of strikes in December and January

Mick Lynch, the RMT General Secretary, announced a series of 48-hour strikes in December and January due to failed negotiations with Network Rail and train operators. The strikes involve over 40,000 members and include an overtime ban. Lynch accuses the government of interfering in negotiations and criticizes the Rail Delivery Group for not having the authority to negotiate. He plans to meet with the Secretary of State, Mark Harper, to resolve the issue. Lynch apologizes for the inconvenience to the public and urges them to direct their frustration at the government. He calls for solidarity among trade unionists to fight for better pay and conditions.

What prompted the Union to announce a series of 48-hour strikes?

• The government requested the strikes.

• Negotiations with Network Rail and train operators failed.

• The Union wanted to show their strength.

• A new deal was offered by Network Rail.

What was the Union's response to the government's interference in negotiations?

• They accepted the government's terms.

• They ignored the government's interference.

• They suspended previous strike action in good faith.

• They decided to cancel all strikes.

Who does the Union believe now holds the authority to resolve the dispute?

• The Secretary of State, Mark Harper

• The train operators

• The Rail Delivery Group

• The Union's negotiators

What message does the Union convey to the public regarding the strikes?

• The public should direct their frustration at the Union.

• The public should support the government.

• The public should direct their frustration at the government and railway employers.

• The public should ignore the strikes.

What does the Union urge other trade unionists in Britain to do?

• To avoid any form of industrial action.

• To support the government's position.

• To take a stand and fight for better pay and conditions.

• To remain neutral in the dispute.