RMT calls on new Southern chief to commit to Guards

6 August 2018

RMT Press Office:

RMT calls on new Southern Rail chief to commit to Guards on trains as union looks at next steps in Britain’s longest running industrial dispute

RAIL UNION RMT today wrote to the new Managing Director of Southern/GTR, Patrick Verwer, requesting that he takes an early initiative to resolve Britain’s longest running industrial dispute on Southern Rail over the axing of guards and the rolling out of Driver Only Operation.

The union has pointed out to Mr Verwer that a deal has recently been concluded on Greater Anglia underpinning the guard guarantee, which follows similar agreements including settlements covering the whole of Scotland and Wales, and that his appointment presents an opportunity to resolve the Southern dispute which is well into its third year.

RMT has requested a response from Mr Verwer by Thursday, 9th August, to allow the union executive to consider the company’s current position and make any decision on future industrial action
RMT General Secretary, Mick Cash said:
“RMT members have been fighting to defend the principle of a safe, secure and accessible railway for all on Southern Rail for well over two years now and the arrival of a new Managing Director presents both sides with an opportunity to take a constructive approach and work on an agreement that matches the best practice in the industry in the wake of recent settlements including the deal on Greater Anglia.

“The events in Brighton on Saturday after the end of Pride illustrate yet again the need for a properly staffed railway where safety and access comes first. That is exactly what RMT has been fighting for.
“We have requested a response from Southern/GTR by Thursday to allow our Executive to consider the company position and to look at the next steps in the dispute.”

Ends.