Protests took place today at train stations across the South East, opposing threats to staffing and services along the new Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern (TSGN) franchise.

 

To coincide with the action, Caroline has tabled an Early Day Motion opposing the Government-backed French and German control of the new ‘super franchise’.

 

The move could lead to driver-only operated trains, the axing of guards, fewer staff at stations and loss of train maintenance staff.

 

Caroline said: “The new franchise threatens the livelihoods of skilled local railway workers and our services. I absolutely support today’s protest in Brighton and call on the Government to review this new super franchise as a matter of urgency to ensure the protection of jobs, services and passenger safety.

 

“Our once thriving railways, now privatized and fragmented, are today characterised by poor services and some of the most expensive fares in Europe. They’re ripping off passengers, harming the economy and failing the environment.

 

"If the Government really wants to make savings and improve our transport network for all, it should accept that privatisation has clearly failed and gradually return the railways into public ownership. A publicly-owned railway system will provide quality services, fair prices and protect our jobs: a railway service we can again be rightly proud of.”

 

The full wording of the Early Day Motion tabled by Caroline can be read here