Union resorts to threatening letter

RMT union bosses were accused of ‘bullying’ members into going on strike yesterday as a threatening letter sent to a worker who refused to walk out emerged.

The letter, sent to a London Underground staff member and seen by the Daily Mail, was titled ‘not obeying union instructions’.

Sent by an RMT branch secretary in north London, the letter warned that the worker would no longer be entitled to the full array of perks offered to members. They were also summoned to a union meeting to explain themselves.

The letter to the worker, who the Mail has agreed not to name, said: ‘I am writing to you as your elected RMT Branch Secretary and in that capacity.

‘It has been reported to me by one of your local representatives that you have not obeyed union instructions during our dispute with London Underground Limited.

‘You need to be aware that the branch has a position that we do not offer branch assistance including representation until you have been given the right to respond to this allegation at a branch meeting.’

Summoning the worker, the letter added: ‘You should be aware that the next branch meetings are at the Langham Club [North London] on Thursday 7 July and at the same time via Zoom link on Thursday 1 July.’

It comes after the Mail revealed how nearly a quarter of rail staff defied the RMT by turning up for work during one strike last month.

An RMT spokesman said: ‘This letter does not constitute bullying in any way, shape or form. It simply expresses concern that a member has not carried out duties expected of them by their local branch.’