London Overground profits to go to new firm

RMT condemns London Overground sell-off to Deutsche Bahn

RMT has condemned the decision by Transport for London to hand the busy London Overground service over to failing rail privateer Arriva, a subsidiary of the German state railway Deutsche Bahn.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said that it was ludicrous to hand LOROL services over to the German state as Arriva have just had their contract for the Tyne and Wear Metro ripped up with that service being taken into direct public control from April next year.

“The German state has openly admitted that it will be using profits from foreign franchises to run rail services in Germany.

“It appears that this government is happy for other states to make profits from our rail network but not this state,” he said.

A German Transport spokesperson stated last year:“ We're skimming profit from the entire Deutsche Bahn and ensuring that it is anchored in our budget - that way we can make sure it is invested in the rail network here in Germany”.

> RMT National News

Friday, 16th October
RAIL UNION RMT members working as Train Managers for Chiltern Railways will take a further 24 hours of strike action this Saturday (17 October) as the company continues to refuse to provide guarantees over the safety-critical role of the second person on board proposed East West Rail services.
Thursday, 15th October
Maritime union RMT has welcomed Skills England’s decision on the future of maritime apprenticeships, including the vital Seafarer Deck Rating apprenticeship, which plays a crucial role in supporting jobs, skills and careers in Britain’s coastal communities.
Thursday, 15th October
OFFSHORE UNION RMT has condemned the introduction of Offshore Energy UK’s (OEUK) safe weight limit policy which comes into effect on 01 November 2026, warning that the restrictions could have serious consequences for offshore workers, their employment, and their livelihoods.
Monday, 12th October
An RMT member employed as a London Underground Revenue Control Inspector faces possible dismissal after intervening during an assault on staff and a passenger at Bond Street station.
Friday, 9th October
RMT members working as Train Managers for Chiltern Railways will be taking 24-hour strike action tomorrow (Saturday 10th October and also Saturday 17th October) after the company refused to provide guarantees over the safety critical role of the second person on board proposed East West Rail services.