Around 40% of rail services will continue running during strikes as per the proposed minimum service regulations for train operators in Great Britain, according to the government.
Ministers aim to implement this legislation before the Christmas season. These regulations will also set specific minimum service levels for ambulance personnel in England and border security personnel in England, Wales, and Scotland.
The government asserts that these measures are "proportionate," but unions have criticized them as impractical.
The country has experienced a surge in strike action across the public sector due to stagnant wages amid rising prices. Many of these disputes have been resolved, but some continue.
While no further rail strikes are currently scheduled, an ongoing dispute persists between rail companies, the train drivers' union Aslef, and the RMT union, representing other rail workers. Union members have frequently gone on strike in the past 18 months, primarily over pay and working conditions, including the previous Christmas, with the potential for further strikes in the coming months.
The legislation, which was passed by Parliament earlier this year, empowers ministers to establish minimum service levels for health, fire, education services, border security, and nuclear decommissioning. Some employees will be mandated to work during industrial action and could be dismissed if they refuse, while unions failing to comply could face damages claims of up to one million pounds from employers.
The government has concluded consultations regarding the required service levels for ambulance and rail workers, with other sectors to follow.
For train operators, the government specifies that an equivalent of 40% of regular timetables should operate during strike actions, prioritizing key routes to remain open.
Regarding ambulance workers in England, the legislation ensures that emergency services will be maintained during strikes, with all life-threatening calls receiving a response.
The legislation will also be applicable to Border Force personnel and some Passport Office staff in England, Wales, and Scotland. The government asserts that all ports and airports will remain open during strike days, with border security providing service as effectively as if no industrial action was taking place.
The legislation will be presented in Parliament on Tuesday, with the government hoping for it to become effective by Christmas, pending parliamentary approval.
The government argues that these measures will ensure that public services can continue functioning during walkouts while maintaining the right to strike.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated, "We are doing everything in our power to prevent unions from disrupting Christmas for millions of people. This legislation will enable more individuals to travel and receive the emergency care they need."
Critics argue that the legislation is undemocratic and could escalate industrial tensions. The TSSA transport union said it would not work and was a direct attack on the right to strike. The RMT union called on employers not to issue minimum service work notices.
Other major unions, such as GMB, Unison, and Unite, criticized the measures, asserting they would not address issues in the NHS. The Labour Party, which has pledged to repeal the legislation, accused the government of making excuses in anticipation of Christmas.
The Department of Health and Social Care is currently consulting on expanding minimum service levels to cover other emergency services, which may include nurses and doctors. Health unions already provide "life and limb" coverage during strikes because existing laws prohibit industrial actions that could endanger lives.
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan committed to introducing minimum service levels in schools on a voluntary basis if an agreement is reached with unions. The department also plans to consult on implementing minimum service levels in universities. Photo by Phil Richards from London, UK, Wikimedia commons.