MPA calls for solution to avoid rail strike

Association calls on RMT, Network Rail, and the Government to resolve issues and avert strike action

THE Mineral Products Association (MPA), representing producers of the aggregates and cement that are transported by rail, has supported calls from the Rail Freight Group to resolve their differences ahead off announced strike days.

Construction materials are one of the biggest flows of rail freight on the network, with rail connecting quarries in places such as the Peak District, Leicestershire, and the Mendips with their markets in major cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Each aggregates freight train takes around 76 lorries off the road, saving carbon and reducing congestion and noise, while supplying essential materials.

The pattern of strike days has been designed to cause maximum disruption and will potentially cause backlogs at MPA members’ sites and shortages at depots in cities. The MPA has welcomed the acknowledgement of freight in statements by Network Rail and DfT, especially in the light of the sector’s essential status, as recognized by the Government.

Nigel Jackson, chief Executive of the MPA, said: ‘Our members use rail freight extensively and would like to use it more in the future. This strike threatens disruption that to the flow of essential materials and damages confidence. I urge the RMT, Network Rail, and Government to get together and find a solution to avoid this completely unnecessary damage to our industry and the wider economy.’