This was despite a witness statement from his instructor, and an admission from the Hearing Officer that Brother Adams had not broken any rules.

A gross injustice has obviously been done to our member and a threat has been issued to the other Machine Drivers. Carillion Rail have made clear that there is now zero tolerance for on track incidents, and a simply case of human error is now sufficient to cost our members their livelihoods.

The GGC have therefore considered the case, and the following decision has been made:

"That having read the officers report, the General Secretary is instructed to inform the company that we are now in dispute with them over their application of the disciplinary procedure.

Further, all our machine driver members within the company to be balloted for strike action and action short of a strike over this matter. Meanwhile, the General Secretary is also instructed to arrange meetings of our members together with the Regional Organisers, General Secretary and GGC members in attendance to explain the application of the company's position to also discuss a strategy for enacting any mandate for action that may arise.

All Branches, Regional Councils and members to be informed of this position."

I will inform you of developments.

Yours sincerely

Bob Crow
General Secretary