A REDUCTION in timetabled trains, new methods of working, and a wage freeze are among the contents of an Enabling Framework Agreement agreed on June 15 between Network Rail, the Trade Unions and the Rail Delivery Group representing the franchised Train Operating Companies (TOCs), which will continue to be the employer.
It is a high-level staff consultation document that reflects the need to reduce industry costs due to an expected revenue shortfall of £2 billion annually compared to pre-Covid levels as a result offewer passengers and the reduced use of season tickets.
Of note is that the agreement does not include TOCs that are overseen by devolved administrations, and therefore services provided by ScotRail, Caledonian Sleeper, Transport for Wales and the London Mayor through the Transport for London agency are excluded, as are the open access and freight operators.
Service cuts