Date: 21/07/2017

The RMT union has held 'full and frank' talks with the transport secretary amid more than a year of industrial action on the Southern rail network. The company has been in dispute with both the RMT and Aslef unions over changes to the role of guards and driver-only operated (DOO) trains. RMT general secretary Mick Cash said Chris Grayling now had a 'clear understanding' of its position. Mr Grayling said: 'We want more people helping passengers.... not fewer.' 'I was happy to meet with the RMT and reiterate the offer of long-term commitments to staff who work in the rail industry,' he said in a statement. Mr Grayling, who had a meeting with the train drivers' union Aslef on Thursday, added that he hoped the discussion would pave the way for the reopening of talks between the RMT and Southern 'so we can sort out this situation and get services back to normal'.

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RMT in 'full and frank' government talks

BBC News

General secretary Mick Cash said Chris Grayling now had a "clear understanding" of its position.