Union hits out at rail chaos

The RMT rail union has called on transport secretary Chris Grayling to resign. The union’s call followed chaotic scenes across the rail network since the introduction of a new timetable in May which saw hundreds of trains cancelled and rail workers left to deal with irate passengers. 


The RMT pointed to a leaked Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) crime and security briefing warning staff that “the likelihood of encountering unhappy customers is higher than normal”. It advised them to “always keep a safe distance” from customers who want to vent their frustration; “move to a place of safety” if they feel intimidated or feel the situation is escalating”; and report being abused, threatened or physically assaulted to their manager or British Transport Police. 


RMT general secretary Mick Cash said the GTR notice issued to staff “shows the reality of Grayling’s railway”. 


And he said that such a notice has had to be issued at all, “demonstrates the daily danger that staff are being put in as a result of Grayling’s incompetence. If putting railway staff at risk in this way is not a reason to resign then what is?”


He also said that “pressure cooker conditions” on the railways are becoming routine, reinforcing the need for adequate numbers of staff.

https://www.rmt.org.uk/news/rmt-again-calls-for-resignation-of-transport-secretary/