Update: LNER Train Drivers Cancel Planned Five-Day Strike

In a significant development, Aslef, the train drivers' union, has called off a planned five-day strike on LNER services. These strikes, initially set to commence next month, were targeting LNER, a key operator on the East Coast Mainline, with a start date of 5 February.

Despite this, broader walkouts affecting numerous rail operators are still on schedule between 30 January and 5 February, stemming from ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions.

LNER drivers, however, will partake in a single day of strikes within this period.

Sources have informed the BBC that Aslef's decision to withdraw the additional five days of strikes followed LNER's assurance to the union about not enforcing minimum service levels (MSLs). LNER had previously intended to implement these MSLs on 2 February, amidst a widespread strike impacting 16 train operators.

Recent legislation allows employers to mandate that staff, planning to participate in walkouts, must ensure 40% of the scheduled rail services are operational.

Rail Minister Huw Merriman expressed last week that the government anticipated the enforcement of minimum service levels, but ultimately, it is a decision for the employers.

An LNER spokesperson welcomed the news, stating: "The lifting of the threat of extended disruption to our services is a positive development. We urge Aslef to collaborate with us in resolving this protracted dispute that adversely affects the rail industry."

Scheduled Train Driver Strikes: Despite the LNER strike cancellation, rolling strikes affecting various operators are set to begin on 30 January. Current indications suggest that none of the train operating companies will enforce minimum service levels.

Here’s a breakdown of the expected strike days for different train companies in England:

• Tuesday, 30 January: Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Thameslink, South Western Railway, and SWR Island Line.
• Wednesday, 31 January: Northern Trains, Transpennine Express.
• Friday, 2 February: Greater Anglia, C2C, LNER.
• Saturday, 3 February: West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway.
• Monday, 5 February: Great Western, CrossCountry, Chiltern.

Furthermore, union members plan to abstain from overtime work from 29 January to 6 February.

Notably, ScotRail and Transport for Wales are not involved in this dispute.