MP welcomes resolution of train drivers' dispute

MP Oliver Heald believes the resolution of the train drivers dispute is an early Christmas present for commuters. As reported on www.roystoncrow24.co.uk earlier this week, train drivers union Aslef has rec

MP Oliver Heald believes the resolution of the train drivers' dispute is an early Christmas present for commuters.

As reported on www.roystoncrow24.co.uk earlier this week, train drivers' union Aslef has recommended its members accept a new pay offer from train operator First Capital Connect (FCC) worth an extra five per cent over the next two years.

It had been balloting members on whether strike action should be taken as part of an ongoing dispute over pay and working conditions.

Mr Heald joined his Hitchin counterpart Peter Lilley in a meeting at the House of Commons with Mary Grant and Tom Joyner from FCC to discuss the settlement and recent train cancellations caused by staff shortages.

The Royston MP said he had been contacted by commuters from Royston and Ashwell who were concerned about the prospect of more disruption in the run up to Christmas.

He said: "There is no misery quite like rail misery and I feel for the many constituents who have contacted me about the recent cancellations and delays.

"However, it was reassuring to hear the company chairman Mary Grant say that she expects a good service on our line for the future. If it turns out that way, this is a Christmas present for hard-pressed commuters.

"But I will be continuing to monitor the situation.