PUTTING train drivers in charge of operating the doors on new trains coming to Swindon will reduce safety, the bosses of two unions have stated as they joined forces to prevent staff cuts.

The unions have said they completely oppose the removal of a safety-trained guard onboard the new high-speed electric trains, which are designed to give the driver control of opening and closing the doors.

This job is currently the responsibility of the guard on the current fleet of ageing high speed trains that serve Swindon and the wider west.

The unions claim that proposals outlined by Great Western Railway will put the driver in charge of operating the doors on the new trains when it arrives at a station, which they are opposed to.

Issuing a joint statement on the matter ASLEF general secretary Mick Whelan and RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “We firmly believe this method of operation is less safe for passengers and the workforce and our unions will not agree to the extension of this under any circumstances.

“The responsibility of the driver of the train is to drive, which requires 100 per cent focus. It is less safe for both the driver and passengers if the driver is distracted by additional duties such as protecting the platform train interface. The guard/conductor should retain responsibility for door operation.

”We are particularly concerned for example that there have been a number of incidents in the last year across all sectors where even more pressure has been placed on drivers rather than questioning the safety of Driver Only Operation.”

The union chiefs continued that the introduction of the new system would remove the current guarantee that passengers always have a safety critical second person on the train who can not only deal with emergencies but can also provide general reassurance and assistance to passengers.”

They said: “It is also essential for the safety of both the driver and passengers to have the guarantee of a guard/conductor on the train to protect the train driver and passengers in the event of driver incapacity.

“This was demonstrated by a recent incident at Sutton Weaver where a driver received a severe electrical shock and was assisted by the guard who was able to call for the emergency services and accompany a doctor who was travelling on the train to provide emergency first aid.

“With record passengers numbers we now need more rail staff, not less. Services for passengers should be improved by investment in modern railway infrastructure and rolling stock - not by dismissing and deskilling guards and placing event more responsibility on the driver.

“We will campaign in unity to oppose this and to seek to explore ways of reversing it where it has been introduced. This will include making our views clear to the employers, government and other politicians.”