The RMT union has called on the government to reverse cuts to the British Transport Police (BTP) and take urgent steps to make Britain’s railways safer, following the horrific mass stabbing on a train last Saturday.

New figures reveal a steady decline in officer numbers. Full-time equivalent BTP officers have fallen to just over 0.8 per million passenger journeys, down from over 0.9 per million last year — an 11% drop and almost a third lower than in 2009/10, when there were 1.2 officers per million journeys.

In her latest report to the British Transport Police Authority (BTPA), the Chief Constable warned that the force is now “operating at the limits of safe headcount reduction.” This year alone, 522 BTP posts have been cut, with another 51 expected to go over the next two years through natural wastage.

The union says approximately 1,000 additional officers are required to return to historic policing levels and ensure a visible presence on stations and trains. Meanwhile, BTP data shows rising crime and antisocial behaviour: overall crime rose 5.4% last year, antisocial incidents requiring urgent response increased 9%, violent offences jumped 14%, and offences involving women and girls were up 12%.

RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “The horrific mass stabbing on board a train diverted to Huntingdon station has shocked the whole country and underlines why safety and security for rail workers and passengers must be the top priority. We need a properly resourced British Transport Police and a visible presence of officers on stations and trains to reassure passengers and protect staff all year round. The BTP has seen officer numbers fall by almost a third since 2009, at the same time as violent crime and antisocial behaviour have risen sharply on the rail network. The Chancellor should use the Budget to make sure the funds are there to rebuild BTP strength and deliver the safe, secure rail network that our members and wider public deserves.”

The union is urging the Chancellor to provide funding in the upcoming Budget to rebuild policing levels and restore safety and confidence across Britain’s railways.

Image: RMT