RAIL union RMT has slammed the British Transport Police Authority (BTPA) for supporting a three-year funding deal that it warns will force through front-line cuts. 

BTPA has agreed to funding increases of 8 per cent in 2026/27, 5 per cent in 2027/28, then a sharp drop to just 1 per cent in 2028/29. 

But RMT says the police force “made clear” the settlement creates a £2 million budgetary hole. 

The union warns that while the early years of the deal could allow a recruitment boost, the third-year cut threatens to undo any progress.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “You cannot rebuild police numbers in years one and two only to slash them again in year three. It is very reckless and undermines safety.

“By 2028/29, Great British Railways will be up and running and delivering savings through nationalisation.

“RMT is calling on the Secretary of State to urgently review the 2028/29 settlement so BTP can plan with certainty and keep a visible police presence on the network as crime continues to rise.”

BTPA was contacted for comment.