London Underground intend to remove platform staff from detrainment duties and change the procedure prior to trains reversing via sidings. This is a return of ‘flash and dash’ where drivers will make 3 announcements and then close the doors without physically checking the train is empty. These proposals will result in hundreds of passengers being over carried into reversing sidings across the combine. This will lead to drivers dealing with drunk/aggressive passengers in reversing sidings with no means of escape to a place of safety and no assistance readily available. These plans are driven purely by management’s desire to increase service levels at the expense of the safety of drivers. ASLEF insist that all trains be physically checked prior to reversing and have told LU that the proposals are unacceptable, have insisted that they be withdrawn, and if they are not withdrawn we will fight them with all means available. The following lines and locations are affected by the proposals: -

• Centra: Debden, Liverpool St, Marble Arch, Newbury Park, Northolt, Woodford, White City

• District: Barking, Parsons Green, West Ham

• H&C: Barking West Ham

• Metropolitan: Amersham, Harrow on the Hill

• Jubilee Wembley: Park, West Hampstead, Willesden Green

• Victoria Seven Sisters:Victoria

• Waterloo/City Waterloo: (Platform 26)

In addition, the Bakerloo line may be subject to future changes as LU intend to review the detrainment procedure at Queens Park.

Motions have been passed at branches across the combine calling for action short of a strike and strike action should any staff be disciplined, or suffer any detriment, for physically checking their train is empty prior to reversing via a siding. This matter will be discussed by ASLEF’s Executive Committee in the coming days. Updates to follow from your ASLEF Trains Health & Safety Council reps.