Passengers in the south face more disruption as talks between Southern Rail and driver’s union ASLEF have concluded with no sign of a new agreement.
The union is due to begin an overtime ban at the weekend after a two-week suspension.
For the duration of the talks the company agreed that, with one exception, it will not run trains that should have a second staff member if no-one is available. This is a key issue for both ASLEF and the RMT union and if the move is made permanent it could provide a long-term resolution to the dispute.
Guards no longer close doors on Southern services
ASLEF drivers on Southern were due to begin an overtime ban on Sunday 4 June but announced shortly before this that it had suspended the action for two weeks to allow time for negotiation on the issue driver only trains and other matters.
If no agreement is reached and the overtime ban is not suspended further, it is due to take effect from this weekend.
A Southern spokesman told Transport Network: ‘Talks with ASLEF have concluded at this point in time and both sides are considering their next steps.’
He added: ‘We have accepted that, for this temporary period, we will run trains only if there is a second person on board when operating off the Brighton Mainline. Even though those on board staff will not be closing train doors, we will have to cancel services if they are not available.
‘We’re doing this in the interests of our passengers. We made a temporary agreement with ASLEF that allowed them to suspend their action and give further talks every chance of success - we want an end to this once and for all for our passengers.’
A spokesperson for the union restated that it had suspended the overtime ban to give it time to talk to the company, but could not provide any further information at this time.
The RMT said on Monday that its executive 'will be considering the next steps this week in disputes on Southern, Northern and Merseyrail over the axing of guards'.
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
