NETWORK RAIL REDUNDANCIES ON WEST COAST MAINLINE

That this House is extremely concerned at the decision of Network Rail to introduce compulsory redundancies amongst rail maintenance workers despite receiving Government subsidy of £5 billion per annum; notes with dismay that these redundancies will affect many parts of the rail network including the loss of over 600 jobs on the West Coast Mainline; is appalled that skilled green jobs are being lost when they will be needed to expand and improve the nation's railway; is also alarmed at the safety implications of reducing a workforce who are responsible for ensuring the safe inspection and repair of track, signals and other rail infrastructure; and calls on Network Rail to review immediately its decision.