Mick Lynch Slams Government Over Rail Talks Deadlock
Mick Lynch, General Secretary of the RMT union, has blasted the government’s handling of rail negotiations, saying it’s “impossible to find a negotiated settlement when the dead hand of government is presiding over these talks.” He accused employers of chaos, with mixed messages adding to the confusion.
Rail Talks a ‘Farce’ Until New Secretary of State Steps In
Lynch warned the whole negotiation process has turned into a shambles. “This entire process has devolved into a farce that can only be resolved by the new Secretary of State. I’ll deliver that message to him when I see him later this week.”
He urged commuters and the public to direct their anger at both the government and rail companies amid ongoing strikes. “In the meantime, we apologise for any inconvenience, but we urge you to direct your rage and frustration at the government and railway employers during this latest phase of action.”
Union Calls For Nationwide Solidarity
Not stopping at rail workers, Lynch has called on all trade unionists across Britain to unite for better pay and conditions. “We call on all trade unionists in Britain to take a stand and fight for better pay and conditions in their respective industries.”
He also hinted at more co-ordinated strike action and protests to ramp up pressure.
UK Faces Tough Blow from Global Energy Crisis, OECD Warns
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) says the UK will suffer the hardest hit from the global energy crisis among major economies. Its latest forecast predicts the UK’s economy will shrink next year — the worst contraction in the G7.
“The UK will contract more than any other G7 country next year,” the OECD report states. The US and eurozone might see slow growth, but the UK and Germany face economic shrinkage.
The report points to the Ukraine conflict as a key driver behind uneven impacts, hitting Europe hardest with rising energy prices and trade disruptions.
Overall, the OECD expects global growth to slow to just 2.2% in 2023, despite strength from emerging economies.
