Emergency Special Working (ESW) Trial with SWT(a)

Dear Colleague

EMERGENCY SPECIAL WORKING (ESW) TRIAL WITH SWT

Further to Head Office Circular NP/170/12 of 25^th July 2012 I am writing to update you on developments with this issue. Network Rail have requested a meeting to discuss the matter further. On considering this request the General Grades Committee carried the following resolution:

“That we note the correspondence on file from Network Rail, South West Trains and ASLEF.

The Alliance between Network Rail and South West Trains still appears to be hell bent on watering down procedures, with the removal of Hand Signallers a clear indication of this.

Therefore we instruct the General Secretary to inform the companies that their request for a further meeting will only be considered after their updated, amended position is placed before us.

Further, we reiterate our total opposition to ESW in its current form and the Alliance is to be told in no uncertain terms, that this union will continue to oppose this ill conceived dilution of safety standards.

Further, no other meetings between the companies and our Representatives concerning this matter are to take place until further notice.

Additionally a reminder of our previous decision G943 to invite ASLEF to a joint strategy meeting at Unity House is to be sent to our sister trade union.

Branches and Regional Council to be advised.”

I am acting in accordance with these instructions and will keep you informed of developments. Please bring this circular to the attention of relevant members.

Yours sincerely

Bob Crow

General Secretary