Avanti West Coast Suspends Two Sunday Strikes for Negotiations

The RMT union pauses industrial action on January 19 and 26 to engage in talks over rest-day pay disputes.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has suspended strikes planned for January 19 and 26 to allow for intensive negotiations with Avanti West Coast.
The dispute centers on pay for rest-day working, with RMT members previously staging Sunday strikes since New Year’s Eve and planning to continue through May.
Avanti West Coast has confirmed that the late announcement will prevent a full timetable on January 19, though some additional services may operate.
The union cited its goodwill and commitment to resolving the dispute but emphasized that all other planned strike dates remain in place.
Avanti West Coast has faced ongoing industrial challenges, including staff shortages and strained labor relations, despite receiving a renewed contract in 2023.