Deal to stop UK train strikes ‘in touching distance’, says Network Rail

Chief negotiator says better communications could sway union members, as first of five days of rail strikes begins

A deal to stop strikes is “in touching distance”, the chief negotiator for Network Rail has claimed, as drivers and staff began the first of five consecutive days of national rail strikes.

Tim Shoveller, Network Rail’s chief negotiator, suggested the pay offer would not be improved but claimed that better communication of the deal would begin to win over union members.