Newcastle Socialist Party
Striking train drivers in Aslef picketed Newcastle Central station wearing masks of transport secretary Mark Harper, mocked up to look like ‘Where’s Wally’. As one of the strikers explained: “We’re asking where’s Harper – we haven’t seen him since January.”
Strikers were pleased to report to us that reps of other unions, including the BFAWU bakers’ union and National Education Union, had been along to their picket lines to offer solidarity. Alongside unwavering public support, this has boosted the confidence of strikers.
There is clearly a mood for struggle. One of the strikers highlighted that support for action is resolute, telling us: “The percentage of the ballots coming back in favour of strike action are getting higher.” The same striker talked of the need to coordinate strike action across unions.
