RMT offer refusal is ‘playing politics’

THE RMT was accused of ‘playing politics’ by pressing ahead with strikes yesterday as it emerged another union accepted the same pay offer.

More than 70 per cent of senior Network Rail staff represented by the TSSA voted in favour of an 8 per cent salary rise over this year and next. It was not put to less senior workers on lower pay.

But the RMT is refusing to put the same offer to a single member.

A Government source said: ‘We urge other unions to stop playing politics and follow the TSSA’s lead.’

It means there will be less disruption when RMT workers for Network Rail and 14 operators strike on August 18 and 20. The RMT said the deal did not meet what members want.