RMT strike called off… with no reason given

The RMT union has called off a 24-hour strike by guards on South Western Railway, planned for November 10.

The union had previously announced that its members would strike on every Saturday in November.

No reason for the change of plan was given, although the choice of date - immediately before Remembrance Sunday - had been widely criticised as thousands are expected to make their way to London to mark the centenary of the ending of the First World War.

With the centenary of the signing of the Armistice on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month falling on a Sunday, the numbers of people attending are expected to be much higher than normal.

RMT General Secretary Mick Cash stated: “Following consultation with our branches, RMT’s executive has decided to withdraw the strike action on South Western Railway planned for November 10.

“All other action scheduled in the dispute remains on, and the union remains fully committed to using all industrial, political and campaigning tools at its disposal to secure the retention of the guard on SWR services.”

SWR said it had not been given a reason for the change.

The Saturday strikes also coincide with England rugby internationals at Twickenham, with the game on November 10 against New Zealand.