MP calls for action to prevent job losses at struggling rail company
A HULL MP says the Government needs to “stop talking the talk” and take action to avert redundancies at Hull Trains.
The rail operator restarted its direct service to London at the end of August, after it was suspended because of the pandemic.
Hull East MP Karl Turner said the open access operator, which did not qualify for Government funding through Emergency Measures Agreements, was “clearly struggling”
A formal consultation over 23 redundancies began earlier this month. Some onboard catering roles are understood to be under review and call centre staff are also being moved to Sheffield.
The operator is currently running two return trips a day between Hull and London and passenger numbers are still significantly lower than usual.
According to the RMT union, which has started a petition
against the job losses, Grand Central, another open access operator, is forecasting a £ 20m loss this year, and has cancelled its proposed North West project, putting 17 posts at risk of redundancy.
Mr Turner said he had asked for a meeting with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, adding: “If they are serious about levelling up the Government needs to stop talking the talk and take action.”
The union said: “In May, the Transport Secretary told Parliament he is ‘ keen as mustard on the open- access trains’, yet his Department has offered no support to this sector during the pandemic.
“The Government must now intervene as a matter of urgency and agree a financial support package for Grand Central and Hull Trains and ensure all jobs and conditions are protected.”
Louise Cheeseman, managing director for Hull Trains, said: “We have been working with FirstGroup to establish a sustainable business plan for Hull Trains and, whilst we have made a very cautious return, we have always known that getting back on track would come with its challenges.
“As a result, there are some proposals which have been shared with union reps and a formal consultation process is in progress.”