ScotRail strike action set to go ahead as RMT union turns down latest pay deal

A union representing ScotRail workers has rejected the latest pay offer tabled by the national operator, paving the way for strike action next week.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union “overwhelmingly” turned down the latest pay rise implemented by the newly-nationalised firm after talks on Thursday.

It comes after an undisclosed deal was offered on Tuesday – weeks on from a separate 5% increase which was also rejected.

RMT leaders said it was now “full steam ahead” with strike action planned for Monday, October 10.

Strike action by the union earlier this year left the majority of ScotRail’s services cancelled with just a handful of routes in the central belt and Scottish Borders operating.

It is likely to cause similar issues for rail passengers this time around, with just three services running.

Trains between Edinburgh and Milngavie will call twice an hour until 6.30pm while those between Glasgow and Lanark and Glasgow and Larkhall will be restricted to once an hour.

Network Rail staff will also walk out this weekend as part of a dispute over jobs, pay and conditions.

That action, which is separate from the ScotRail/RMT strike, takes place on Saturday, October 8 and involves workers who maintain infrastructure on the railway network.

ScotRail has been contacted for comment.