UK: Unionized public transport employees to stage multiple strikes in England, Scotland, and Wales Dec. 13-Jan. 7 /update 1

Unionized transport employees to stage multiple strikes in England, Scotland, and Wales Dec. 13-Jan. 7. Rail travel disruptions likely.

Event

Unionized public transport workers plan to stage several strikes Dec. 13-Jan. 7. The strikes relate to disputes over pay and working conditions.

Staff at Network Rail and 14 train operating companies affiliated with the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), plan to strike on the following dates:

Dec. 13-14
Dec. 16-17
18:00 Dec. 24-05:59 Dec. 27
Jan. 3-4
Jan. 6-7

East Midlands Railway staff associated with Unite the Union will stage strikes Dec. 23-24. The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) called off strikes planned in December while its members voted on an employer offer.

UK security staff at Eurostar associated with the RMT union plan to strike Dec. 16, 18, 22, and 23.

Workers at Abellio bus services also plan to strike over pay, Dec. 16-17. This will affect bus routes in west and south London.

Unless averted, the strikes will cause significant disruptions to the UK's rail network, and London bus services; the Eurostar strikes will cause disruptions to rail services between the UK and France. Lingering disruptions will likely affect rail services following strike days as operators reposition rolling stock. Available rail services will likely experience crowding, while significant congestion is likely on alternative means of transport. Union members may organize demonstrations, which could cause localized disruption. Further strikes are possible over the coming weeks.

Advice

Confirm rail and bus services and allow extra time for journeys Dec. 13-Jan. 7. Consider alternative transport and book reservations in advance due to increased demand. Follow local travel advice.