Proceedings on British Railways have been partially suspended

The UK rail strike that British railway workers had called for on Saturday, among others, has been suspended for the time being. According to the RMT union, “intensive negotiations” are underway to resolve a long-running dispute over wages and working conditions.

Rail operators welcomed the news. But they immediately said the change of plans came too late in the day for Saturday services to run on schedule. British Transport Minister Mark Harper warned of continuing “significant disruption” to rail.

RMT, whose members have gone on strike for several days in recent months, said the union would hold talks with rail companies and Network Rail, which owns, operates and develops Britain’s rail infrastructure.

Railroad workers stopped working on November 5, 7 and 9. The union said it had now received the “promise of an offer” from the railway companies. However, doubts remained. It may still be discontinued in mid-November.

A separate strike by London Underground staff will continue on November 10 for the time being. So did the TSSA members’ strike at the Avanti West Coast and East Midlands Railway operators on Saturday.