The guards tried this last time in 1987, they went looking for 12.5% increase, why because the then new MK3 coaches had automatic doors, apparently having central and electrically verified door locking makes the job more difficult at the same time they gave out about new tail lights (legal requirement for over a century) and having to carry a walkie talkie, all of which were imposed by the railway inspectorate. There was even talk of looking for money for the track circuit bar which is only used following a derailment or accident.
Needless to say the claim was thrown out
Problem is even reasonable improvements which make the workers life easier are contested. We don't know exactly what is going on but without question a equal level of blame goes to the unions and management.
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