The RMT Union confirmed further strike action in the dispute over rail safety and the axing of guards on South Western Railway yesterday (Thursday 7th June).
RMT has instructed its members not to book on duty from 00:01 on Thursday 21st June 2018 until 23:59 on Saturday 23rd June 2018.
RMT General Secretary, Mick Cash said “RMT has made every effort to progress talks with South Western Railway but there has been a total lack of goodwill from the company and as a consequence we have no option but to confirm this further round of industrial action.
“The responsibility for this escalation rests solely with the company who know full well that the union won’t stand aside while they play fast and loose with both the talks process and the safety and well-being of the general public.
“We have long detected the dead hand of the Government interfering to stop us reaching negotiated settlements in the current disputes and it’s about time Chris Grayling stopped playing politics with passenger safety and started taking the issue seriously. He should be putting pressure on his rail contractors to reach a settlement rather than encouraging this cavalier approach to passenger safety and disabled access.
“RMT remains committed to the principle of genuine and meaningful talks in this dispute.”
In response, South Western Railways said “We will do everything we can to minimise disruption to you during this period of industrial action. More information will be provided on our website in due course.
“Journey planners for Thursday 21, Friday 22 and Saturday 23 June are subject to change whilst we produce our plan and update relevant systems.”
