Passengers left enraged as train operators ignore legislation
In a blow to passengers, train operators have decided not to enforce minimum service laws during this week's drivers strike. Introduced in November, the legislation requires 40% of services to run during industrial action. However, an Aslef union source revealed that none of the 16 train operators will be using these laws during the five-day strike from Tuesday to the following Monday. Alongside the strike, members will also be banning overtime for nine days. This decision is sure to anger passengers who are already frustrated with the disruption caused by ongoing strikes.
Government figures admit they are powerless to intervene
Despite calls for tougher action, senior Government figures privately admit that there is nothing they can do to enforce the minimum service laws. Last week, LNER abandoned its plans to use the legislation after Aslef threatened further strikes. Train operators argue that not all staff are able to drive the same trains or routes, making it difficult to implement the minimum service requirements. Additionally, they fear that enforcing these laws could result in even more disruption and financial losses.
Militant unions accused of holding the country to ransom
Politicians, including Greg Smith of the Commons' transport committee and Jack Brereton, Tory MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, have condemned the strikes as disproportionate and accused the unions of trying to hold the country to ransom. Smith suggested that the new laws should be toughened to better protect rail users. However, Aslef leader Mick Whelan has argued that the legislation will only exacerbate industrial strife.
Despite the frustrations of passengers and the calls for stronger action, the decision not to enforce minimum service laws during the drivers strike stands. It is now up to the train operators to explain their decisions to the affected passengers.
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