Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the Government is taking steps to help mitigate against (a) train and (b) tube strikes.

The Government is focused on resolving this dispute so that critically needed workforce reforms can take place, supported by a fair pay deal.

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.

During industrial action, my Department will support operators to do all they can to minimise the impact of strike action on passengers and businesses.

Transport in London is devolved and is the responsibility of the Mayor of London and Transport for London (TfL), this includes action to mitigate TfL strikes. However, the Secretary of State for Transport is regularly updated on impacts of industrial action on passengers of the London Underground (and other rail services).