Three-Day Train Strike Set to Bring Chaos This May and June
Rail passengers brace yourselves! After slamming a “risible” 4% pay offer, the Aslef union has confirmed three days of strike action in May and June.
When Are the Next Rail Strikes?
- Friday, 12 May 2023: First day of Aslef strikes hit national rail services.
- Wednesday, 24 May 2023: TSSA union strikes disrupt Elizabeth Line.
- Wednesday, 31 May 2023: Second Aslef strike day causes further rail turmoil.
- Saturday, 3 June 2023: Final Aslef strike coincides with the FA Cup Final, disrupting travel.
Major Events Under Threat: Eurovision and FA Cup Final
Eurovision fans heading to Liverpool for the big contest on 13 May could face major travel chaos thanks to strikes on 12 and 31 May. Meanwhile, football fans travelling to London for the historic all-Manchester FA Cup Final at Wembley on 3 June could also be hit hard.
Union Fury After Pay Offer Rejected
Aslef General Secretary Mick Whelan blasted the Rail Delivery Group’s (RDG) offer as “laughably low.” He said:
“The 4% pay rise is risible when inflation is still over 10%. Our members haven’t had a pay increase in four years. We also wanted to modernise Britain’s railways, but RDG refused.”
The strike will hit services from top train operators including Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Southern/Gatwick Express, and more.
Government Blames Unions for Disrupting Key UK Events
Transport Secretary Mark Harper slammed the strikes, saying:
“It is deeply disappointing that Aslef is striking during the UK’s first Eurovision event in 25 years and the first-ever all-Manchester FA Cup Final, affecting thousands of fans, including Ukrainians displaced by Putin’s war.”
Harper claimed the RDG’s offer was “fair and reasonable” with pay rises and reforms to keep railways financially sustainable. He urged:
“Aslef must call off these strikes and let members vote on the proposal.”
Travel Tips
If you’re planning to travel by train on strike days, expect delays and cancellations. Check your train operator’s updates and consider alternative transport options for Eurovision and FA Cup events.
