MUSICIANS and chorus members at the English National Opera (ENO) have suspended this week’s strike action against job cuts.

Members of performers’ and entertainers’ union Equity and the Musicians’ Union were to strike on February 1, the day ENO launches its production of The Handmaid’s Tale.

The company planned to axe 19 orchestra posts and make other staff members work part-time on a six-monthly basis.

Equity said in a statement: “We are pleased to announce that Equity has reached an interim settlement with the ENO for the chorus.

“Although this does not mark the absolute end of negotiations, we are confident that constructive talks can lead to a full resolution in the coming weeks.

“This suspension also allows time for the ENO to complete its negotiations with the Musicians’ Union, who are also suspending their action, and to confirm the final details of both offers.

“Our mandate for industrial action remains live until such time a full settlement is reached.”