Scupper the strikes

THE proposal to recruit agency workers during rail strikes is pure political fantasy, as it’s neither practical or workable.

The tactic of striking on alternate days, ensuring rolling stock is always in the wrong place, has to be tackled head on.

We must never take away the fundamental right of any individual, union backed or not, to withdraw their labour, but legislation must protect society from politically motivated strikes.

Strikes should be limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive days from when they are called.

During this time both parties should meet at least twice with an independent conciliation service.

If an agreement can’t be reached, then those striking should be required to return to work with the arguments from both sides being put before a ‘jury’ of ordinary folk. Their decision would be binding on both parties for two years.

However, common sense goes out of the window when politicians, employers and trades unionists start ramping up the rhetoric.

MICK TEDDER, Dover, Kent.