Avanti West Coast drivers get 3.6% pay rise
Deal includes enhanced Sunday pay and a bonus for working extra days, ahead of renationalisation.
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Train drivers employed by Avanti West Coast have agreed to a 3.6% pay increase following negotiations with the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (Aslef) union. The agreement, reached on Saturday, averts potential strike action on key routes, including the London to Manchester line. This marks the first pay deal approved by Andy Burnham in his role as transport minister.
Details of the pay agreement
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The settlement provides drivers with a 3.6% salary uplift, which is 0.7% above the current inflation rate. Additionally, the deal introduces a rate of time and a half for any Sunday shifts worked. Drivers will also receive a £720 payment if they work a fifth day within a standard week. An Aslef spokesperson confirmed the union's objective to improve members' terms and conditions had been met through this agreement with Avanti West Coast.
Future of Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast is slated for renationalisation by spring 2027, as part of a wider government plan for all rail companies to be under public control by the end of that year. The operator has faced criticism regarding its service reliability. Figures from the Office of Rail and Road indicate that Avanti West Coast has the lowest punctuality rating among major UK rail companies. The company has previously reduced services, such as the Manchester to London morning train, only to reinstate it after public reaction.
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A Department for Transport spokesperson stated that the government prioritises resolving rail union disputes and enhancing passenger services, aiming to reduce financial losses and taxpayer burden. The department expressed satisfaction with the agreement between Avanti West Coast and Aslef, noting its role in maintaining rail operations and preventing passenger disruption.
However, Conservative shadow transport secretary Richard Holden criticised the government's approach, suggesting it amounted to capitulation to union demands and that taxpayers would fund the settlement. The deal was first reported by the Sunday Times.
Questions this report answers
+What pay increase have Avanti West Coast train drivers received?
Train drivers working for Avanti West Coast have secured a 3.6% pay rise. This agreement was reached between the company and the Aslef union and was approved on Saturday.
+What other benefits are included in the deal for drivers?
The agreement includes enhanced pay for working Sundays, with drivers receiving time and a half. Additionally, drivers will be paid £720 if they work a fifth day in the week.
+When will Avanti West Coast be renationalised?
Avanti West Coast is scheduled to be renationalised by spring 2027. This is part of a broader government initiative to bring all rail companies under public control by the end of that year.
+How does Avanti West Coast perform in terms of punctuality?
According to figures from the Office of Rail and Road, Avanti West Coast has been rated as having the worst punctuality of any major rail company in the UK.
WE FILE
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