Rail firms back more strikes in guards row

Workers at two of the train companies embroiled in bitter disputes over the role of guards have voted to continue with industrial action.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union at South Western Railway (SWR) and Greater Anglia backed a renewal of a mandate for strikes and other forms of action.

The vote was over 80 per cent in favour at Greater Anglia on a turnout of more than 80 per cent, with a yes vote of 73 per cent on SWR on a 63 per cent turnout.

The union had to hold a fresh ballot.

Richard Dean, Greater Anglia Train service delivery director, said: “We are disappointed our conductors have voted for further industrial action, although it should be noted the number in favour of strikes is smaller than before.”