Two years of rail strikes appeared to be nearing their end after ministers offered drivers a 15 per cent pay rise to settle the dispute.
Union bosses said the offer had “no strings” and have recommended the deal to members in a move that raises hopes for resolving strikes that have caused months of misery for commuters.
Ministers argue that a rise worth thousands of pounds to the average driver is a price worth paying for resolving industrial disputes that have cost hundreds of millions of pounds.
Mick Whelan, Aslef’s general secretary, applauded the government
JORDAN PETTITT/PA WIRE
However, the Conservatives accused the government of “caving in” to the unions. Two weeks ago, Labour announced a deal with junior doctors for a 22 per cent pay increase to end their disruptive industrial action.
Louise Haigh, the