Rail bosses hit out at 'cynical' strike

RAIL bosses have hit out at "cynical" union leaders after a strike was called to coincide with Scotland's Six Nations clash with England at Murrayfield.

More than 550 rail staff are set to take part in three separate 24-hour strikes over plans to introduce "driver-only" trains on the new 300 million Airdrie- Bathgate line.

The RMT union said one-day walkouts would take place on 20 February and on 1 and 13 March after members voted by a margin of nearly five to one in favour of industrial action.

ScotRail said calling a strike for 13 March – the day of Scotland's clash with England – was a ploy to hit passengers on one of the country's biggest sporting days.

A spokesman said: "It is not only cynical but incomprehensible that the RMT has chosen to strike on one of Scotland's biggest sporting days. However, we have no intention of spoiling anyone's day and will keep Scotland's railway running."

Bob Crow, RMT general secretary, said: "This overwhelming vote shows just how angry RMT members are that a company that gave its shareholders 18m last year is prepared to reduce safety for the sake of just 300,000.

"Anyone in doubt of the crucial role played by guards need only read First Group's own training manual. Railway workers know that properly trained guards save lives."