Union warns of nationwide rail strikes in pension row

When and where the strike could be is yet to be decided

Disruption is expected until 10am (Getty Images)

The biggest rail union has warned of the possibility of national rail strikes in a row over pensions.

Mick Cash, general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT), advised in a letter to all members that any move to cut pension benefits or increase member contributions could lead to a nationwide walk-out.

It follows the news that rail operator Stagecoach has been disqualified from recent rail franchise bids for putting in “non-compliant bids” in relation to pensions.

Cash said in the letter: “This has quite understandably raised concerns amongst all our Train Operating Company (TOC) members in respect of their future pension benefits and I am writing to update you on what your union is doing to protect your pension.

“Your union is of the view that the railway pension scheme is fundamentally sound and in good shape. The only reason there now appears to be an issue is a new approach from the pension’s regulator and the government which is threatening the scheme.

“This is not just an attack on our members’ future pension rights but also puts in doubt the long-term future of the Railway Pension Scheme.”

Cash said he had written to transport secretary Chris Grayling, all TOC employers and the Rail Delivery Group to confirm that if future pension benefits were reduced, or member contributions were to “significantly increase”, the RMT would take “necessary action”.

“This union will not tolerate the position where Chris Grayling plans to subsidise TOC employer contributions while attempting to raise member contributions and cut benefits.

“Any such attack will be met with a campaign of coordinated industrial action across the rail industry to defend pensions.”

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “It is important that the Railway Pension Scheme is fair, affordable and sustainable for employees, employers, taxpayers and farepayers.

“Positive discussions are taking place between TPR, the RDG and the Trustee, and we encourage all parties to work towards agreeing a solution.”

A spokesperson for the Rail Delivery Group said: “Nobody wants to see disruption on the railway. That is why we have developed a sustainable pensions framework which has been provided to government.”