TSSA hails government’s rail steel deal as ‘highly significant’

Rail union TSSA has welcomed the announcement of a major new multi million-pound contract between Network Rail and British Steel over the coming five years.  

The contract is worth an estimated £500 million and will start on 1 July this year - providing the company with 80 per cent of its rail needs. It forms part of Network Rail’s rail supply contracts for the provision of almost 450,000 tonnes of track for the next 5 years. 

The union views the move as ‘highly significant’, showing the value of public ownership, with an active state enriching the lives of workers and commuters up and down the country. 

Commenting, TSSA General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust said:  

 “The deal between Network Rail and British Steel is highly significant. It stands in marked contrast to the many wasted years under the Conservatives and shows the value of public ownership, contrasted against the utter failure of privatisation.  

 “Undoubtedly the new contract and investment demonstrates long-term commitment from the government, underpinned by a proper industrial strategy. The deal will be vital not only to our members across Network Rail who keep the railways moving safely every day of the year, but to commuters and businesses up and down the country.”