It has been reported by the Rail, Maritime, and Transport Union (RMT) that some Network Rail maintenance staff have received major underpayments in their wage packets.

According to the union, it has received numerous disturbing reports of missing payments, which in many cases are hundreds and even some in the thousands of pounds.

Network Rail staff have been trying to contact the payroll department in an attempt to remedy the underpayments, but they report that they have not been able to contact the payroll department by phone, and emails are not being answered.

In response, the general secretary of the RMT, Mick Lynch, has written to the company to demand urgent action. He said: “Such matters would be concerning at any time of the year, but for this to happen in the run-up to Christmas when people have financial commitments and spending promises make it more shocking.

“Some of our members are experiencing not just a financial crisis but also a mental health crisis as a result of the strain placed on them and their families.

“I have asked Network Rail why they would expect staff to turn up for shifts over the Christmas period if they are unsure whether they get paid or not.

“The union has called on the company to take emergency measures to rectify this problem or RMT will consider an industrial response.”