Rail bosses ‘nearly there’ as they close in on reaching pay deal with unions

RAIL bosses are said to be “nearly there” with reaching a pay deal with unions.

Sources claim RMT boss Mick Lynch has softened his stance.

One said: “Mick has been the most deal-minded he’s been. He needs a way out of the dispute.

“Rather than things just being dismissed, he’s been putting forward practical solutions.

There’s been talk of using language creatively to get a deal. We’re nearly there.”

More strikes are due next week but the source said a deal by February is not impossible.

Downing Street has said a fair agreement should not involve double-digit pay rises as that would “embed” inflation.

The PM’s spokesman reiterated that they wanted employers and unions to reach a reasonable compromise.

The Department for Transport urged both sides to return to the table adding: “After two years of virtual Christmases, the public deserve better.”

A 24-hour strike on West Midlands Trains ended this morning.

A walkout by TSSA members could disrupt Great Western Railway until midday.

Driving examiners launched a five-day strike with instructors walking out at 71 test centres.