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<p>Rail freight services are significantly affected by RMT strikes, with approximately
20% of freight services operating on strike days and returning to around 70% on the
day after a strike. The Government continues to work closely with rail freight operators
and Network Rail to support them to continue to run services across the network and
move as much freight as possible, particularly critical services, during industrial
action.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>The continuing industrial action at a time of
fiscal constraints on the Government and financial pressures on the freight industry
is no doubt having an adverse impact on consumers, the freight industry and taxpayers.</p><p><strong>
</strong></p><p>We are very clear that it is for employers and Trade Unions to negotiate
the details of essential workforce reforms that would enable an affordable pay deal.
Ministers role is to facilitate and support the ongoing discussions between the rail
industry and Trade Unions regarding workforce reform and pay.</p><p> </p>
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