Union boss threatens to keep rail strikes going for FIVE YEARS

Union boss threatens to keep rail strikes going for FIVE YEARS as Keir Starmer faces calls to ‘get off the fence’ and condemn misery being caused for Brits

Brits have been warned that rail strikes could continue for five years – as Keir Starmer faces calls to ‘get off the fence’ and condemn the action.

Train drivers staged their latest walkout yesterday, causing misery for Brits trying to get to events such as the FA Cup Final at Wembley and the Epsom Derby.

It was the third disruption for rail services in the course of a week, and Aslef union general secretary Mick Whelan made clear that there is no end in sight for the dispute.

He told Sky News: ‘We do not want to be on strike. But we are in this if it takes us four years, five years, whatever it is, to get a resolution to this, we will do what it takes to get to that resolution.

Aslef union general secretary Mick Whelan (pictured centre on a picket line in Newcastle yesterday) made clear that there is no end in sight for the dispute

Train drivers staged their latest walkout yesterday, causing misery for Brits trying to get to events such as the FA Cup Final at Wembley and the Epsom Derby. Pictured, King’s Cross Station in London

‘We have gone four years without a pay rise, as have many other sectors and many other workers.

‘But to stop now after four years, what will happen, we’ll not get a pay rise next year, the year after, the year after that.’

Mr Whelan claimed he had not spoken to anybody from the Government in more than six months. However, the government insists a fair pay offer has been made.  

Tories pointed out that Aslef is affiliated to the Labour Party – and called on Sir Keir to condemn the strikes.

Tory Deputy Chairman Lee Anderson said: ‘It’s time for Slippery Starmer to get off the fence and condemn these strikes causing misery for commuters and businesses.

‘But he’s too under the thumb of his union bosses – the ones who really control the Labour Party.’

Tories pointed out that Aslef is affiliated to the Labour Party – and called on Keir Starmer (pictured on a recent visit to Scotland) to condemn the strikes

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