As a rail commuter to London myself I’m acutely aware of the further disruption particularly in the last week on Southern and Thameslink train services.
Problems continue to be caused by Network Rail track failures, horrific performance levels from Govia Thameslink Railway itself, ongoing engineering works, and unnecessary industrial action.
My job is to hold the Department for Transport to account – regardless of political party, MPs are lobbying the Transport Secretary both as a group and on an individual basis.
The Secretary of State must be sick of the sight and sound of me, but that’s the least of my concerns.
While I welcome the recent announcement of compensation for Southern passengers, including commuters being able to claim a refund for the equivalent of a whole month’s travel, this is a short-term remedy. Season ticket holders will be able to claim a refund against their 2016 ticket, which can be paid directly into their bank account.
Additionally, I have previously called for enhanced Delay Repay measures, and a better deal for customers where claims can be made after a 15 minute delay will commence on 11th December.
The salient issue in all of this – beyond the public squabbling between the rail operator and trade union bosses – is the hurt to family life and employment problems that poor service and strike action is giving us.
I’m talking about those precious hours, for example, at the start and end of the working day where parents can spend time with their children. Whether it’s to help with the homework, play a game or watch TV together, or to sit down and have dinner as a family – it’s moments such as these that perhaps Govia, the RMT and ASLEF have lost sight of.
Please be assured of my ongoing action and representations.