Local RMT strike over disputed allegations of racist behaviour

A round of strikes by RMT members at Thames Valley Signalling Centre in Didcot disrupted Great Western Railway services on Saturday November 19 and Monday November 21.

The action was a local dispute, unlike the renewed strikes as part of the national industrial dispute. Members were protesting about the dismissal of a union official. RAIL understands the case involves allegations of racist behaviour, which the union challenges.

Those who stopped work included signallers, shift managers, electrical control operators and level crossing keepers. The result was disruption for passengers across much of the GWR network, spread over a four-day period.

Fans travelling on GWR to the England vs New Zealand rugby international at Twickenham were told not to go by train. They could get there, but not back again, as there would be no services after the game.

GWR said that although the whole region remained open, many routes had only a limited service, with the first trains after 0730 and all trains finishing by 1830. Some smaller stations, such as Pewsey, had no trains at all.

Network Rail’s Interim Western

Route Director David Davidson did a shift as a signaller at Didcot during the strike.

He said: “We’ve had a disciplinary action at Thames Valley Signalling Centre, which operates the route between London and Bristol. It’s really disappointing that the RMT has decided to call this needless strike action.”

The RMT said no one was available for interview, but issued a statement: “We are taking strike action to protest at the unjust sacking of an RMT rep.

“We do not want to disrupt passengers, but employers should follow proper procedures and our members felt that was not done in this case.

“The union is also considering its options, including legal action.”

GWR said trains were also disrupted on the Sunday between strikes, and on the Tuesday morning. Passengers who had already purchased tickets could claim a full refund.

The route was due to suffer further disruption on Saturday November 26 (after this issue of RAIL went to press), with drivers in the ASLEF union striking over pay as part of a wider action involving 11 train operators.