06.07.1995

Aslef drivers make call for strike unity

THE TRAIN drivers’ union Aslef has voted for a series of 24-hour strikes over pay. In a 72.8% turnout 60.4% voted for action. The first stoppage will be on Tuesday July 11 with a further five days announced up to September. These six days could cost British Rail £60 million, something they can ill afford to lose in the final run up to privatisation. Drivers are in no doubt that, although the action is over pay, the effect on privatisation is by far the bigger prize.

The Government has tied the hands of the BRB over pay by insisting on three percent and no more, just as they did last year with the signalworkers. Aslef therefore recognises that there is a direct fight with the government. The stakes are very high.

The leadership of the main rail union, the RMT, expecting a positive result in its own ballot, has already committed itself to co-ordinate with Aslef. London underground members have also been balloted, and this gives an excellent opportunity for united action.

Aslef drivers in Manchester have called for such united action and have invited RMT members to a meeting to organise a joint Manchester-wide strike committee. It is vital that this lead is followed all round the country to forge maximum unity.

This dispute could become protracted and increasingly bitter. Regional Railways North-West has already been preparing lists of managers who can be called upon to drive trains.

The strike support groups formed around the signalworkers need to be reactivated. With united action and public support the railworkers could win a major victory that could have repercussions for all workers

Aslef driver, Manchester