RMT to Protest DOO Plans Ahead of East West Rail Launch

Rail union RMT has announced plans to hold a protest outside Marylebone station at 9am on Monday 5 January to oppose the introduction of Driver Only Operation (DOO) on the upcoming East West Rail line. The demonstration comes after Chiltern Railways confirmed its intention to run services on the new route without a second safety-critical crew member.

RMT argues that having two trained staff onboard is crucial for passenger and worker safety. They highlight the role of a second crew member in providing reassurance, deterring anti-social behaviour, coordinating emergency responses, managing evacuations, and handling incidents such as fires.

The union cited the recent mass stabbing on an LNER service at Huntingdon station as a stark reminder of the importance of trained staff. In that case, crew members were able to respond swiftly, alert control and British Transport Police, and coordinate an effective response to the fast-moving incident.

RMT is calling for guarantees that all East West Rail services operated by Chiltern will include a second safety-critical staff member, warning that industrial action could be considered if the company proceeds with DOO.

Eddie Dempsey, General Secretary of RMT, said:

“A guaranteed safety-critical second person onboard trains is essential for carrying out a wide range of duties and responding properly to dangerous and fast-moving situations. It is vital that any method of dispatch is agreed with the union and properly reflects the safety-critical skills and responsibilities of the second crew member. The horrific incident at Huntingdon showed exactly why having trained staff onboard matters. The quick actions of the guard and other crew meant the seriousness of the situation was immediately understood by control, signallers and the British Transport Police, allowing swift and decisive action. We need a clear commitment from Chiltern that East West Rail services will not be Driver Only Operation and that a second safety-critical member of staff will be guaranteed. Passengers value the reassurance of having staff onboard, and RMT remains totally opposed to DOO. If Chiltern management continue to be unreasonable, we cannot rule out Industrial action to defend this safety-critical role.”

Image: Chiltern Railways