LNER Strikes: Union Proposes Hiring Royal Mail Drivers as Solution

Aslef, the train drivers' union, has proposed a potential solution to the ongoing dispute with London North Eastern Railway (LNER). The union suggests hiring experienced drivers from Royal Mail, who are facing job losses due to the postal service's decision to end its dedicated train operations.

This proposal comes in the wake of Aslef's announcement of weekend strikes on LNER services between London and Edinburgh, scheduled to run from late August to mid-November 2024. The industrial action stems from what the union claims are persistent breaches of labor agreements by LNER, particularly regarding the deployment of managers to cover for striking drivers.

The dispute has raised eyebrows in the industry, especially considering the government's recent offer of a 15% pay increase to Aslef members across the rail sector. However, the LNER conflict is separate from this industry-wide negotiation and focuses on specific labor practices.

Royal Mail's decision to halt its postal train operations by October 10, 2024, after nearly two centuries of service, has created an opportunity for LNER to address its alleged driver shortage. Approximately 20 drivers from DB Cargo, who currently operate Royal Mail trains, will be made redundant. These drivers, also Aslef members, could potentially fill vacancies at LNER.

An Aslef spokesperson stated:

"This provides an immediate hiring opportunity for LNER. Recruiting experienced drivers from the freight sector could help address the staffing issues and potentially resolve the dispute."

The union argues that LNER is short of dozens of drivers, which they claim is at the root of the deteriorating relations between the company and its employees. Aslef suggests that a written assurance from LNER to end the practice of using managers as drivers, along with a commitment to increase driver numbers, could form the basis for negotiations and a long-term agreement.

It's worth noting that LNER has been under state control since 2018, when Virgin Trains relinquished the route due to financial difficulties. This government involvement adds another layer of complexity to the dispute, as OLR Holdings, which manages LNER on behalf of the Department for Transport, may play a role in resolving the conflict.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh has called for both parties to negotiate in good faith and prevent the strikes from occurring. However, the government's direct involvement may be necessary given LNER's status as a state-controlled operator.

The proposed solution of hiring freight drivers could have wider implications for the passenger rail sector. Under the recent pay deal, LNER drivers stand to earn up to £81,000 annually, second only to Eurostar drivers in the UK rail industry. This salary is at least £20,000 higher than the best-paid freight train drivers, potentially making the transition attractive for those facing redundancy.

As the industry grapples with these challenges, the outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for addressing driver shortages and labor relations in the UK rail sector. With the East Coast Main Line being a crucial artery connecting London and Edinburgh, the resolution of this conflict is of significant importance to both commuters and the broader transportation network.