Quote:
Originally Posted by 1andrew1
I've forgotten how public sector disputes used to get resolved. As Network Rail is publicly owned and funded, I imagine that the government may have to get involved if more cash is involved.
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Network Rail isn’t British Rail. The British Railways Board was entirely appointed by government, which continually watched over their shoulders (frequently making things worse in the process). Network Rail is state owned but operates at arm’s length. It isn’t a government department and there is no role for government ministers in its management, even when it comes to pay bargaining. It is regulated by the Office of Rail and Road which while it’s a government department, does not itself have a minister running it so as to distance it from political interference. The operation of the railways has been deliberately designed so as not to make them a daily political issue. This of course is exactly why the RMT, with all the subtlety of a half-brick, is trying to make it into one. The trade union movement is spoiling for a fight with a Tory government and the RMT thinks it is in with a chance here.
Direct political influence over the railway occurs at the strategic level - new infrastructure, long-term agreed operational goals, etc. pay bargaining isn’t that.