Train drivers accept pay deal ending two years of strikes

Train drivers have voted in favour of a pay deal that will bring two years of industrial action across England, Scotland and Wales to an end.

An overwhelming majority (96.6%) of ASLEF members voted to accept the offer, which included a 5% backdated pay rise for 2022-23, a 4.75% rise for 2023-24 and a 4.5% increase for 2024-25.

The formal offer negotiated between the Department for Transport and ASLEF was put to ASLEF members in a referendum last month.

The agreement follows two years of train strike-induced disruption, estimated to have cost hospitality more than £3.5b in sales.

In a video message posted on X, Mick Whelan, general secretary of ASLEF, said: “We’re very pleased to announce today that the long-running industrial dispute caused by the Tory party and their political will has been ended.

“We look forward now to delivering a railway under nationalisation for the taxpayer, the travelling public and a brighter, greener future for all people. I want to thank every train driver for the unity, strength and solidarity they’ve shown in the last two years.”

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, added: “Hospitality businesses will be breathing a huge sigh of relief at the news that ASLEF members have voted to end the union’s national pay dispute.

“A resolution as we head towards the winter months and the critical ‘golden quarter’, when hospitality makes a significant chunk of its revenue around Christmas, was absolutely essential.

She added: “With a line now drawn under this dispute, I hope all parties can work together to rebuild faith and confidence in our rail network, which is so critical to hospitality, leisure and tourism.”