Next week the country risks grinding to a standstill due to the planned rail strike.
Industrial action is always a last resort. But RMT union members argue they have no choice if they are to prevent more than 2,000 of their colleagues from being made redundant and to secure a pay rise in line with inflation.
While a few rail workers earn a decent wage, many are on less than £20,000 a year.
They are not fighting out of greed but because the offer on the table fails to take into account rising food, fuel and heating costs.
A responsible government would have intervened to try to resolve the dispute and prevent the disruption. Despite the unions reaching out for talks, they have been repeatedly rebuffed by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.
The Tories are far more interested in inflaming divisions for political purposes than negotiating a deal that is good for both workers and passengers.
There is still time to avert the walk out. It just requires Mr Shapps to stop grandstanding and start talking.
Splash the cash
As Britain swelters during the first heatwave of the year, local councils are closing swimming pools.
Town halls are not doing this out of spite but because of the rising cost of chlorine. The war in Ukraine combined with a fall in production in China has driven up prices as much as 60%.
While cash-strapped councils have little money to spare, they should be doing everything they can to keep the pools open.
It is not just about people having the chance to cool off. Activities such as swimming are good for people’s physical and mental health.
Make us proud
The Mirror’s Pride of Britain celebrates those who put the great in Great Britain.
If you know someone who has shown extraordinary courage, inspired others or battled against the odds now is you chance to nominate them for the most important awards in the calendar.
