Train services thrown into chaos

Services of First Capital Connect into London and from Brighton to Bedford were thrown into disarray late last week, as drivers refused to do voluntary overtime. The move caused chaos during the busy rush-hour as commuters turned up for their trains which were not there. Instead they had to wait for later trains which were packed on trips into the capital. It is estimated that up to 50 per cent of services were cancelled as drivers refused to work their voluntary overtime over a dispute about pay and conditions. The rail firm has put in place an amended timetable for the meanwhile.

Union officials who represent around 550 workers of First Capital Connect stated that this was not industrial action that was taken by their members, they were just exercising their right not to do overtime. Aslef, the union, are set to ballot their member over possible strike action in the future which could mean potential chaos for the Thameslink services. The rail firm apologised to their customers about the cancellation of around 200 trains at such short notice  on Thursday and issued the new timetable, but urged travellers to check before leaving as this timetable could be altered again.

The ballot by Aslef will be finalised on the 9th December an they then have  seven day period in which to notify First Capital of strike action, this could potentially happen in the lead up to pre-Christmas travel. Strike action seems to be common place all over the UK at the minute leading to Christmas. Postmen have just come back from their walk-out and it looks like cabin crew at British Airways might well take action over the holiday period.