New Pay Deal for UK Train Drivers Reached

A new pay offer for train drivers, described as a 'good deal for the taxpayer' by Treasury minister Darren Jones, aims to end over two years of strikes. The deal includes backdated pay increases of 5% from 2019 to 2022, 4.75% from 2022 to 2024, and 4.5% for 2024 to 2025, and is set for a vote by Aslef union members. Critics, including the Conservatives, express concerns that the agreement may lead to higher train fares or tax increases, alleging the government has 'caved to the unions'. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has emphasized the need to resolve disputes for the sake of passengers, but has not clarified funding sources for the pay offer. The government believes most funding will come from existing train operating budgets, yet specifics remain unclear. The strikes have severely disrupted rail services, costing the economy approximately £850 million since June 2022, making a resolution urgent.