RMT proposes rail summit to help “break deadlock in driver only disputes”

In an attempt to break the deadlock of the driver only train disputes RMT general secretary Mick Cash has written to the transport secretary, proposing a summit with the Department for Transport, the train companies and RMT.

The move by the union comes as workers involved in disputes on Southern, Northern, Merseyrail, Greater Anglia, South Western Railway and Island Line begin the latest phase of industrial action over rail safety and the role of the guard.

RMT has proposed that the terms of reference for the summit - which could also presided over by an agreed independent chair - could consider how the principles of the agreements RMT have recently reached in Scotland and Wales, which will keep the guard on new modern trains, can be applied to the current disputes whilst at the same time meeting any concerns the Department for Transport and train companies have about future train services.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “I last met Chris Grayling on 12 December 2017, where we were told the train companies were free to negotiate deals like we have reached in Scotland and Wales where the guard has been retained but I then subsequently received a letter from the Chris Grayling asking the union to accept the principle of driver only trains.

"In light of this lack of clarity, and the contradictory messages emanating from the government, I have been seeking further talks with the Secretary State but unfortunately have not had a positive response to that request.

"I have therefore written today to Chris Grayling proposing a summit which could also be presided over by an agreed independent chair and which would consider how the principles of the agreements RMT have recently reached in Scotland and Wales, which will keep the guard on new modern trains, can be applied to the current disputes whilst at the same time meeting any concerns the Department for Transport and train companies have about future train services.”

Cash added: ”I have told the secretary of state that agreements have been reached in Scotland and Wales for safe, secure and accessible modern services and that with good will on all sides we can reach an agreement in England as well.”

https://www.rmt.org.uk/news/rmt-proposes-rail-summit-over-driver-only-di...