MEMBERS of the RMT union protested outside Workington MP Mark Jenkinson's office this week, as strikes continue to take place across the country.

Following a picket line outside Workington Railway Station on a day of strikes for the union on January 3, members of the RMT travelled to Mr Jenkinson's office to 'deliver letters' to the MP asking for his opinion on the government's national rail dispute.

Craig Johnston, RMT Relief Regional Organiser (North) said:"Members of the RMT Workington Branch went to Mark's office, they delivered some letters there asking what his opinion was on the government's involvement in the nation​al rail dispute.

"Including the insistence of the minister and the rail delivery group on driver-only operated trains, so removing guards from trains across the network and also the closure of ticket offices, including Workington and Whitehaven ticket office.

READ MORE: RMT members on strike in Carlisle as rail strikes begin

"The third issue is trying to protect safety critical track workers' jobs, and the final issue is the issue of a fair pay deal."

Craig said the current offers from the government of 4 per cent and 5 per cent when inflation is significantly higher were contributing to 'a massive cost of living crisis'.

He said: "He didn't come out, one of the RMT members from Cockermouth knocked on the door but he didn't come out and we dropped some letters off for his attention and we will be looking forward to hearing from in as to what his position is on these things."

Workington MP Mark Jenkinson said:  Mr Jenkinson said: “I am always saddened to see good people like our rail workers, who only want a better life for themselves and their families, used as pawns by political activists.

“From the pictures the RMT shared of the ‘protest’ it was clear their cause has been hijacked by Labour activists and councillors – who would rather stand with a megaphone outside the office of an MP than get around the table with the employers who can actually effect change.”

READ MORE: Rail strikes: Minister tells RMT to ‘hammer out a deal’