Train workers are threatening a strike on Greater Anglia

RMT confirms vote for strike action over a lack of future security for guards

Rail union RMT today confirmed that members on Greater Anglia have voted overwhelmingly ‎for both strike action and action short of a strike over the potential extension of Driver Only Operation.

They say Greater Anglia’s ‘continuing refusal to give a guarantee on the role of the guard throughout the length of the franchise’ is a ‘clear threat to passenger safety’.

MT General Secretary Mick Cash said: “Greater Anglia have been given every opportunity to give a guarantee on the future role of the guard on their services. They have failed to do so and that left us with no alternative but to move to a ballot in the interests of rail safety.

“Our members have now voted by massive majorities for action and it’s now down to the company to wake up and take note and to seize the opportunity to give us the very simple assurances on the future of the guards, and the guarantee of a second safety critical member of staff on current services.

“The union remains available for further talks around the crucial issue of the guard guarantee.”

‎RMT balloted both drivers and guards members and over 200 Greater Anglia guards. On a 90 per cent turnout, nine to one voted for strike action. The drivers’ vote was two to one for action on a 75 per cent turnout.

RMT says that despite repeated efforts Abellio has failed to provide union reps with the assurances they are seeking with respect to the role and responsibilities of the guards now and for the length of the current Greater Anglia franchise. Abellio Greater Anglia will run the East Anglia franchise until 2025.

The result of the decision to strike will now be considered by RMT’s executive who will decide on the next steps in the dispute.