More rail workers are to be balloted for strikes in worsening disputes over pay, jobs and conditions in the industry.
The Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA) served notice to ballot hundreds of staff for strike action and action short of strike at South Western Railway (SWR).
TSSA represents members working on stations, on board trains, administration staff, supervisors, managers and controllers.
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The union is demanding a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies for 2022, no unagreed changes to terms and conditions, and a pay increase which reflects the rising cost of living.
Ballot papers will be sent out on August 18, with voting ending on September 8.
Manuel Cortes, TSSA general secretary, said: “Yet again we find ourselves in this position because South Western have their hands tied by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and this foolish Tory government.
“This means our members’ pay, job security, terms and conditions are under threat for every day of inaction. SWR staff have not seen a pay rise for over two years and are only asking for some basic fair treatment in the face of a cost-of-living crisis.
“Our members are sick and tired of being taken for granted after being on the frontline during the pandemic.
“Ministers must get a grip of the situation and sanction a deal which meets our aspirations if industrial action is to be avoided.”
The announcement was made ahead of a strike on Saturday by members of the drivers’ union Aslef at nine train operators – which will cripple services.
Further rail and Tube strikes will be held next week.
