Rail unions have called off strike action which would have caused serious disruptions for commuters over the next month.
The RMT had planned two twenty-four hour strikes between May 6 and 7, and May 27 and 28, in a dispute with train operating companies over the safety role of guards.
However, the RMT has cancelled the industrial action, after the companies agreed to include rail unions in discussions about safety standards.
The strike cancellation came after the RMT and the Association of Train Operating Companies held talks yesterday, with both side agreeing to support the recommendations of the Rail Standards and Safety Board.
The RSSB is reviewing the role of guards on trains.
Strikes by rail guards last month caused disruption to services across the UK, with Silverlink and Thames trains affected in London.
A RMT statement said the unions would now be included in consultation over amendments to the railways safety rule group.
"This means that the views of railway workers - the people who, after all, carry out the provisions of the rule-book - will now be heard," the statement said.
The ATOC welcomed the strike cancellation, and Director of Operations Steve Bence said it was good news for passengers.
"The train operators will now await the RSSB's report into the role of the guard and abide by their recommendations."
April 30, 2003 15:30
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