To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the rail strikes on the economy.
Answered on
27 June 2022
The Government regrets that the trade unions have chosen to go ahead with the strikes. These strikes are impacting local businesses and the ability of the general public to get to school, hospital and work.
The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has estimated the cost to the economy of the three days of strike action to be at least £91 million.
The Secretary of State is frequently updating Cabinet about the impact of the strikes. The Government and rail industry, including Network Rail, have worked together and continue to work together to ensure plans are in place to minimise disruption allowing for freight and passenger services to remain operational where possible. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat is also convening ministers daily during the strike period to assess operational response and impact.