Rail strikes: RMT changes date of industrial action to avoid Royal British Legion poppy day clash

The rail union originally planned strike action for November 3 but has now moved that to November 9.

The Legion, which raises millions for armed forces veterans, thanked them in an online statement, adding: “We are very grateful and appreciate the significance of this gesture.”

RMT members in Network Rail will strike on November 5, 7 and 9 while staff at different train operating companies will take action on November 5.

In separate disputes, London Underground and Overground (Arriva Rail London) members will strike on November 10.

The union said it had taken a similar decision to move a strike date in 2016 when industrial action clashed with Legion’s fundraising event.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “Our focus in this dispute is the rail employers who have yet to make an offer that will create the conditions for a negotiated settlement. “I call upon the new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to unshackle the rail industry so they can come to a settlement with RMT.

“We will vigorously pursue our industrial campaign until we achieve a deal.”