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THIS WEBSITE COMBINES THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES 

THE BRIGHTON A.S.L.E.&F.,  THE BRIGHTON MOTIVE POWER DEPOTS 

& THE SUSSEX MOTIVE POWER WEBSITES

WHICH EXPLAINS THE EVOLUTION OF THE FOOTPLATE GRADES AND THE 

HISTORY OF THEIR TRADE UNIONS AND THE STRUGGLES TO IMPROVE 

THEIR WORKING LIVES

ACCIDENT AT HIGH BROOMS ON THE 23rd MAY 1946

I am trying to find out some information about an accident on the line 

between Tunbridge Wells and High Brooms, which caused the death of 

footplatemen Walter Frederick Roomes, on 23 May 1946.

I am under the impression that his depot was T.W.W.

 *Branch membership total 82

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Bob Walls Collection

Vic Rumley

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday May 30^th  1965 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The Branch Chairman opened the meeting by welcoming Bro. Dray of Sectional Council No. 2 who was present to keep us in the regarding picture the redundancies at Tunbridge Wells West.

The minutes of the previous meeting was then read these were moved as a true record by Bro. C. Dunmall seconded by Bro. Bridger.

General Committee meeting report was then given, but we were reminded of the position of June 14^th when there would only be 34 men available and it was agreed to discuss this at a future meeting.

L.D.C. Report was given by Bro. Brooker who covered full the L.D.C. Efforts to to illuminate some of the hardships caused by the redundancy and the Branch's thanks are recorded to the L.D.C for the way in which they rose to the occasion and made every effort to fight the management on the position of redundancy at Tunbridge Wells West.

Bro. Dray then gave his report and expressed his regret over the decision of redundancy at our Branch by this outlined some of the problems facing the Union and Sectional Council, he related that by 1967 there would be no Depot at Nine Elms and there would be a possible 150 men redundant; Guildford was affected and it was proposed to freeze the vacancies at these depots to allow a  gradual run down.

Question were then asked by Bros. Stephenson, Blackmore & Savage. Bros, Stephenson and Blackmore regardng their respective moves to Orpington and Tonbridge, and Bro. Savage asked Bro Dray if it were not possible for the redundant men to be carried at Tonbridge until vacancies occurred. Bro. Dray said he would  raise this question with Management.

There being no more questions or business to discuss Bro. Brooker thanked Bro. Dray for his presence who replied that he would be pleased to attend any of our meetings in the future.

It was proposed Bro. Blackmore seconded Bro. Bridger that a vote of thanks be given to Bro. Dray, this was carried Unam.

The meeting was closed at 12.20.

Membes present Bros. R. Bridger, E. Dunmall, Baldwin, R. Dunmall, Oakly, Blackmore, Coomber, E. Francis, Saunders, Card, T. Hollands, Robinson, Chalklin, R. Brown, Kibbey, Savage, Russell, Rumley, Gower & Brooker.

Total 20

Branch Membership 52

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday August 8^th  1965 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The meeting was opened by the minutes of the previous meeting being read and it was moved by Bro. E. Dunmall seconded Bro Bridger. “That these were a true record.

Correspondence was then read and it was noted that Mrs Francis case had been dealt with by Bro. Pullen and it is recorded that our deepest sympathy goes to Mrs Francis in the death of our member and workmate Bro. Jim Francis. Members also expressed their gratitude to Bro. Pullen in the way he had helped. Mrs Francis

Bro. Bridger then gave the Social Committee report and it was stated that regarding the retired members outing there would be a small charge of 4/6 per member to cover the cost of the tea, the trip arranged was to Herne Bay and Ramsgate.

Bro. Brooker then gave the L.D.C. Report and was questioned on Rest Day Working as to Loan Men from other depots working their Rest Days at Tunbridge Wells West. They were informed that Head Office had been advised of the situation as had Sectional Council.

Members present Bros. Jeffery, Nye, Cavie, Coomber. Diplock, Dunmall, Bridger,

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday September 26^th  1965 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The meeting was opened by the reading the minutes of the previous meeting and it was moved by Bro. Dunmall seconded by Bro R. Bridger. “That these be a true record.”

Correspondence was then which included a reply from Head Office regarding Bro. Eckersly's transfer to platform duties which was not clear to seniority question. Branch Secretary has written again requesting further details. Also correspondence on the question of lodging allowance for Bros. R. Dunmall and P. Russell and it was stated a reply had been received from Bro. Perry Sectional Council No.2, that the matter would be placed on the agenda of the next meeting of Sectional Council.

Bro. Bridger then gave the Social Committee report and he stated that the outing for the retired members outing was enjoyed by all but the attendance this year was very poor.

District council Report was then given by Bro. Brooker which proved to be of an interesting nature.

There being no other business to discuss the meeting was closed at 12.50 p.m.

Members present Bros. Bridger, Dunmall, Diplock, Gower, Brooker, Rigby & Flatman.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday November 11^th  1965 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The meeting was opened by the minutes of the previous meeting being and that being no questions on them, they were moved a true record by Bro. R. bridger seconded Bro. E. Dunmall.

Correspondence was then read which included appeal from district Organisations to which the Branch Secretary said he would attempt to sell some of their products.

The L.D.C. Report was then given by Bro. Booker during which it was raised  by the Branch Secretary about the very slack way some drivers were carrying out their duties allowing other person's to do the driving and shunting with no person in the rear cab. L.D.C. Promised to act on this matter, questions were raised on Holiday Roster but these were answered quite clearly by the L.D.C secretary Bro Brooker. Nominations were then asked for due to the termination of office of Bros Brooker and Bridger, it was stated that due to the drop in Depot strength officially they were only two representative allowed. But two nominations were asked for.

The following two members were nominated

Bro. Gower nom Brooker sec K. Savage, Bro. Savage nom Bridger sec E. Dunmall.

The L.D.C. Secretary then read the report on productivity payments and due to the length of the report and questions raised their was insufficient time to finish the report.

The meeting was closed at 1.15 p.m.

Members persent Bros. Bridger, Savage, Dunmall E., Diplock, Ovenden Gower & Brooker.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday December 12^th  1965 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The meeting opened was opened by the minutes of the previous meeting being read these were moved a true true record by Bro. E. Dunmall seconded A. Card.

Correspodence was then read which dealt with more information on the productivity and single manning agreements which was noted.

The Social Committee report was given by Bro. E. Dunmall who reported that owing to lack of members and the lack of funds it would not be possible to have a Children's Christmas Party for suggestions made it was decided to try for an outing for the Summer of 66.

Next came nominations and elections for 1966 and the following officers were elected for 1966.

 There being no other business to discuss the meeting was closed at 1.0 p.m.

Members present Bros. G. Chalklin, A. Card, E. Dunmall, B. Gower & A. Brooker.

DEBORAH LAWRANCE COLLECTION

L-R JACK PRING (?) & FREDERICK ELMER

TUNBRIDGE WELLS LOCO OFFICE WAS SITUATED IN THE LOCO SHED

Jack Pring seniority date 07.01.1918

Fred Elmer seniority date 4.12.1919 retired in 1968

SONIA LAWRENCE COLLECTION

Fred Elmer’s Retirement Certificate & Railway Convalescent Homes Membership

Fred started his footplate career at the L.W.S.R. loco depot at Plymouth Friar on the 4th December 1919. With the formation of the Southern Railway, this enable Fred to moved to Newhaven in c1936 and in the same year he moved to Tunbridge Wells West. 

These moves are not know whether they are promotional, redundancy or of relocation moves

Fred ended retired as Loco Foreman at Tonbridge in 1968

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday January 25^th  1967 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The minutes of last meeting were read and moved “as read” by Bro A. Card seconded by Bro. R. Bridger.

Correspondence was read and treated as information, it was agreed to support Bro. Noakes of Brighton as A.A.D. Delegate, and Bro. J. Renshaw of Ascot & Reading as delegates to T.U.C. Congress 1967.

It was reported by Bro. R. Bridger on behalf of the Social Committee that a C.W.S. Bank balance of £56.0.0., a cash of £10.15  £125 was held.

It was pointed out by Bro. A Brooker that Bro. B. Gower was holding a balance of £26.0.0., held by Mutual Aid and of the members of this Branch.

In the light of the of the above report it was agreed to keep Branch going as separate identity.

It was agreed the following officers retain their positions for 1967.

Chairman Bro. A. Brooker

Branch committee Bros R. Sullivan, A. Card, W. Ovenden, P. Pepper & K. Savage

District Council Delegate Bro. A. Brooker

Trade Council Delegate Bros A. Brooker & R. Bridger.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday March 5^th  1967 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station.

The minutes of the last meeting was read by the minute Secretary and Bro. C. Taylor moved and Bro. V. Rumley seconded. “That these minutes were a true record.”

Correspondence was then dealt with, and Bro V. Rumleymoved and Bro. F. Diplock seconded, correspondence  on freight bonus be laid on table until District Council report was given by Bro. A. Brooker.

The Chairman Bro. A. Brooker they read a letter from Bro C. Taylor thanking the previous Secretary, Bro. B. Gower for his personal efforts and time given in assisting the Society to being a successful claim on behalf of Bro. C. Taylor’s son’s accident claim.

The Chairman then gave  an L.D.C. report, which included an interesting correspondence with the management on Automatic Half Lighting Barriers which proved eye opening to the members present.

Following this came the report from our member to District Council, Bro. A. Brooker; on the last District Council meeting held on Feb 27^th

Some of the items moved by him were the backing of Officers for 1967.

The E.C. Member Bill Williams report, claims for accident etc., Pay & Efficiency proposal by the B.T.C. utilising Trainmen instead of Second men.

Rail closures including 3 Bridges line and further Government proposal; new holiday and overtime rate proposals; single manning, an outline of Fright Bonus; Free Pass Restrictions, the new radio controlled MAFFIA LOCOS, new uniforms and issue proposals.the new pensions Scheme was then clarified very ably by our member and several examples were given for everyone’s benefit.

The being no other business, the Chairman thanked all members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.45 p.m.

Member present Bros. C. Taylor, V. Rumley, F. Diplock, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday April 30^th  1967 at 10.45 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the minute Secretary, Bro. Bridger moved and Bro. Rigby seconded. “That these were a true record.

The Branch then recorded their vote for Bro. W.H. Williams Feltham Electric as their candidate for Executive Committee Representative, District No. 1.

Bro. R. Bridger then made a report on behalf of the Social Committee concerning the retirement of Bro. F. Bodkin, also the finances of Social committee, future income and the future commitments . A vote of thanks was recorded for Bro’s A. Card and K. Cavie for their efforts in running a pontoon, which had benefitted the Social Fund to the  fine sum of £176.

The L.D.C. report was then given by Bro. Brooker following a meeting held at Waterloo on April 8^th and at Victoria on April 26^th. The purpose of these meetings being the new timetable, extra trains units weekdays, less on Saturdays and Sundays, and the staff position for immediate future, a very interesting report.

Following this came the report from the Branch Chairman and minute Secretary on the Public Inquiry Meeting at the Assembly Halls, Tunbridge Wells on  Wednesday, April 26^th, 27^th , & “28^th into the closure of the Lewes to Hurst Green line. A vote of  thanks from the floor was given to the Chairman and Secretary for their coverage of this meeting.

There being no other business, the Chairman thanked all members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 1.0 p.m.

Members present Bros. R. Bridger, A. Brooker, A. Rigby & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday April 30^th  1967 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the minute Secretary, Bro. R. Bridger moved and Bro. V. Rumley seconded. “That these were a true record”

Correspondence

The appeal for Driver Guppy to be given over to Bro. Savage to deal with at the pay office.

Bro. Bridger then gave an account of the Presentation to Bro. F. Bodkim, also the letter of appreciation for a jolly fine evening out from Mr. Sutherland and his wife from Brighton, which was appreciated by members of the Social Committee. Bro Bridger stated that the amount of money now held in bank and cash in hand by Social Fund was now £64.5.5.

Bro. Bro. Brooker gave a very full report on District Council, which included items as mileage whilst travelling pass, maintenance of diesels and diesel locomotives, compensation paid out to the sum £52,377 to members for the first six months of 1967, Voluntary wage  ---- Re distributing of Organising service card to be brought up to date, Manning Committee report on Single manning, Rest Day Working, report on Regional percentage, Frieght Bonus report, wages structure, alterations suggest for Machinery of Negotiations, London Allowance and allowance and sickness. Bro. Brooker the read a letter in answer to his letter from E.C. member Bro. W. Williams on closure of line from Hurst Green to Lewes, reduction of staff and future staffing positions.

Bro. Bridger then gave his Trade Council report and stressed the importance of Branch Member taking advantage of work Study Courses proposed by T.U.C.

After this came any other business and the Secretary  was instructed to clarify the position within Head Office of drivers future when requested by station master to not as body guard for the collection of wages and in the event of attack,  a drivers eye sight or health could be jeopardised so as to degrade his present station.

There being no other business the chairman thanked all members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.30.

Members present Bros. V. Rumley, R. Bridger, K. Savage, W. Baldwin & A. Brooker  

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday October 22^nd  1967 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the minute Secretary, Bro. R. Bridger moved and Bro. A. Booker seconded. “That these were a true record

Correspndence was then read  consisting a letter pf thanks from R.S. Rabbetts, Brighton no.1 concerning the amount of £3.2.0. collected for the M Guppy appeal fund.

Nominations of candidates for L.D.C.  It was unanimously agreed, following nominations by Bro. Diplock and seconded by Bro. K. Savage. “That the returning officers Bros. A. Booker and R. Bridger be nominated as the Branch candidates and Bro. K. Savage be elected scruitineer.

There being no other business, the Chairman thanked the members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.30.

Members present Bros. R. Bridger, F. Diplock, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday May 5^th  1968 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the minute Secretary,and moved “As Read” by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. V. Rumley.

Before correspondence was then read a vote to be taken of the last meeting had been called  in the interim period, but though impliment weather and lack of support, no quorum could be present to hold these meetings.

Correspondence

A letter from General Secretary re support for copy of “Lighted Flame” for own edition.

It was agreed to pay out of branch funds 10/- and donate towards the Social Secretary then states that there was £28.15.9 balance held  by the Mutual Aid Fund of members, if this balance also £ 7.19.0 from branch returns from the political funds, the amounts secretary having instructed to retaining branch funds was

Bro Bridger then reported on behalf of the social funf saying that £6.17.0 had been collected as a retirement.donation to Bro. C. Waghorn and wanted a mandate from the Branch to make up to the agreed minimum amount of £10 from the Social Fund. This was duly given by Branch Members. Bro. Bridger also stated that Bro, Waghorn had declined on health reasons a presentaton. Bro. Ruley  then stated on behalf of the Social Committee that it was hoped in the summer to run the annual outing for our retired staff.

Bro Brooker and Bro. Savage then reported on Redundency Payments and Contracts of Employment Acts Day School which they attended on 28^th April at Canterbury.

Bro. Brooker followed this with reports on L.D.C. And A.W.S. Warning system, also that renovation and cleaning of lobby.

On the position of serving branch officers, it was agreed thatt returning offices to be confirmed as at December 1967, Bro. Rumley, volunteering for the Committee making 9 total, and the Secretary asked to approach Bro. F. Diplock to take the Assistant Secretary position.

There being no other business the chairman thanked members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 1o/c p.m.

Members present Bros R. Bridger, V. Rumley, K. Savage & A. Brooker

 JUNE 30^TH 1968 

ALL BRITISH RAIL STATIONS AND DEPOT CLOSED

THIS SUNDAY, FIRST TIME IN KNOWN HISTORY

As normal Branch meeting place not available, branch Committee meeting held at 10.45 a.m. At Eastlands Road Tunbridge Wells on June 30^th . 7 out of 98 members being present. Bro. K. Savage holiday and apology received from Bro. R. Sullivan.

The Chairman opened meeting and explained circumstances of convening and venue of meeting.

H.O. Circulars 45&49/1968 being posted in shed taken as read.

Minutes of Joint Central L.D.C.s meeting of 19/5/68 held at Three Bridges, attended by L.D.C. Chairman and Secretary were read, concern being expressed re probable  redundancy at Three Bridges and other depots also point out that proposed next meeting had been put back from July to September at East Croydon.

Notice sent to L.D.C. From management dated 28/6/68 cancelling sunday June 30^th duty Roster was read.

Joint divisional Progressive Committee letter from Bro. B. Noakes A/Secretary asking for comments re setting up of same on S.R. This was thought to be an ill advised venture in light of present B.R.B. Negotations and against the best interest of all drivers. Chairman instructed to reply in the light of the above and other opinions expressed.

Needs to be re photographed

Branch Committee Members present Bros. W. Ovenden, P. Pepper, A. Card, V. Rumley, F. Diplock, A. Brooker, 

& R. Bridger.

*The rail strike lasted 12 days in total and caused massive disruption to the network.

On Friday 5 July 1968 the work-to-rule was called off after the NUR accepted a peace offer from British Rail.

The deal provided pay increases for all the union’s members - 10s a week extra for the lowest paid and three per cent 

extra for all the others.

A.S.L.E.F., who had joined the strike, also reached a settlement with BR and train services returned to normal fairly rapidly. 

As Sunday's were outside of the normal working week, all Sunday turns were cancelled to save money

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday July 21^st  1968 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. V. Rumley. “That they were a true record.” 

Questions as agreed subdequently by the Branch Committee Members, that a copy of the of the letter sent to Bro. B. Noakes be sent to Bro. W. Williams, e.C. Member. The Branch also thanke Bro. V. Rumleyfor his fine backcloth exhibited in  in the Tunbridge Wells Public Library re T.U.C. Centenary

needs to be re photographed

There being no other business, the Chairman thanked members for their  attendance and closed the meeting at 12.45.

Members present Bros. F. Diplock, R. Bridger, V. Rumley, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday September 8^th  1968 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

It was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. H. Love. “That they were a true record.”

Questions on minutes gave the Branches endorsement to the explanation of Bro. A. Brooker to not progressing as to previous minute at District Council for system other to mileage for basing of the driver's basic rate, also a vote of thanks was given to the branch secretary and head office for the swift and forthright arrival of the 30 year membership badges

Correspondence

Branch membership changes

On the question of the week-end school on Oct. 5^th and 6^th at St. Leonards-on-Sea; it was proposed by Bro, K. Savage and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger. “That a delegate be sent from the Branch with costs as stated on circular to be paid from branch funds. It was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by H. Love. “That Bro. A. Brooker be elected delegate.” This proposal being called unan.

Reports

Bro. R. Bridger reported on the retired members outing on August 25^th, and stated that a good day was had, travelling to Rye and Eastbourne, and then on to Wannock Gardens for tea where the preparation was made to Bro. Waghorn on his retirement, and already two letters of appreciation had been received by retired Bro. L. Evans and   C. Waghorn, respectively. Bro. R. Bridger then gave statement of discount in hand. The Branch then stated their appreciation of the work done by the Social Committee.

Bro. A. Brooker then gave a District Council and L.D.C. Report, after which the branch congratulated Bro. A. Brooker for his success in becoming a member of “ Aunestry of Social Society Tribunal for the West Kent Area.”

On the report of the proposed line closure from Uckfield to Lewes and Ashurst Junction to Groombridge, it was proposed by Bro. K. Savage and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger. “That the following resolution be sent to the Tunbridge Wells Trade Council.

“The Tunbridge Wells Branch of A.S.L.E. & F. wish to express their apprecation of the co-operation and action taken by the “Trades Council in opposing to the closure of the Hurst Green to Lewes line. Whilst not being 100% successful was given to other organisations by the early warning of B.R.B. Intentions, to enable them to organise their own machinery to appose the closure.”

There bring no other business, the Chairman thanked members for their attendance and closed the meeting at 

1 o/c p.m.

Members present Bros. R. Bridger, H. Love, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday March 2^nd 1969 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. V. Rumley. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was then read, largely concerning Pay & Productivity and Transfer & Redundancy payments. 

The Minute Secretary explained to Branch Members, that previous meetings had as to be bye-passed owing to the  flu epidemic and unfortunate indisposition of our Branch Chairman. Therefore Branch officers of 1968 were retained into office for 1969.

Reports

Bro. R. Bridger reported on the collection for retired member F. Elmer and the financial position of the Social Fund being namely £21.12.7 in the bank and £5.6.10½  in hand.

Bro. A. Brooker gave a full report of District council i0ncluding account of Societies ivestnenst totally £12,000, consisting of vickers £2,000,Thorn £5,000 & £5,000, compensation figured at £20,000 for the December quarter and a total in all for 1968 of £85,369.

A new item was the Societies ties being sold at 20/- each; ashtray at 5/- and gas lighter at £3 each.

Sectional Council No.2 will consist of 6 representatives, two for each division for 4004 staff. 

The B.R.B proposals for stage 2 Pay and Productivity, and the fact that there were only 39 retirements pending on the Southern Region for 1969 were explained lucidly by Bro. Brooker.

There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 1 o/c p.m.

Thanking members for their attendance

Members present Bros. F Diplock, R. Bridger, V. Rumley, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday June 1^st 1969 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was then read, Appeal for Bro. C. Waterhouse (Sheffield).

On the question of Bro. Waterhouse, it was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock to lay it on the table.

It was proposed by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger. “That the Minute Secretary retain the Branch Fund of £9.12.6. until further banking arrangements could be found.

Reports

Statements of social Committee made by Bro. R. Bridger and a suggestion that other committee members should shoulder the responsibilities of the Social work, with a change of the present officers in mind.

L.D.C. Report

Bro. A. Brooker reported on the staff position, and turns, also shed Staff rest Day roster to cover telephone when Supervisor and rest day, in any Other Business, P.N time at East Croydon, Mess Room Facilities, and  the public Holiday roster were discussed it being recording of public holidays. Unanimously agreed that the present method of Public Holiday Rostering should stand, also the Minute Secretary was instructed to write to Head Office for guidance as to the validity of an Inspector riding with drivers to see that change end procedures are carried out.

There being no other business the Chairman thanked members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 1o/c  p.m.

Members present Bros. H. Love, D. Ward, R. Bridger, F. Diplock, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday September 7^th 1969 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger. “That they were a true record.”

Reports Bro. F. Diplock gave a ful report on discussingon resolution of eath allowance of members; and the outcome of subsidised lines by the government now B.R.B.’s revenue is in the black.

Bro. V. Rumley report on Social Committee stating that on Sunday 14^th September the Pensioners were being taken on an Sheffield Park for a trip on the Bluebell, then on to Eastbourne for a meal. He stressed that 21members were going  and that as the funds were getting low, financial assistance has been obtained from members by some source, this would have to be decided upon social meeting after the outing.

L.D.C. Report, Bro. R. Bridger reported on meeting held with management on Shed staff positions, letter from Bro. Eade of London Bridge on committee of 6, state of yard at Tunbridge Wells West and East Grinstead and management’s view. Complaints of alternations to drivers daily returns.

Unsatisfactory Mess Room facilities at various points and the noise on  driving cabs of D.E.M.U.s . it was proposed by Bro. A. brooker seconded by Bro. K. Savage and carried unanimously. “That the letter from Bro. Eade for committee of 6 be laid on table.”

In Any Other Business 

Bro. H. Love requested that extra Sunday chart be put up in case for members benefit as was always past practice, and not in office as was done now. The L.D.C. agreed to bring matter to Supervisor’s attention

There being no other business the chairman thanked members for their attendance and closed the meeting at 

12.50 p.m.

Members present Bros. H. Love, D. Ward, V. Rumley, R. Brooker, F. Diplock, K. Savage & A. Brooker.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday October 12^th 1969 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. D. Ward. “That they were a true record.”

Nominaions for L.D.C.

Bro. A. Brooker and Bro. R. Bridger retiring members. Voting for th two vacancies. Three members were proposed. Bros. A. Brooker, D. Ward & F. Diplock.

The Chairman said that a vote on paper would have to be taken, each member to have two votes, it was then proposed Bro. A. Brooker and seconded by Bro. R.Bridger That a V. Rumley be scrutineer. Results of the voting went as follows. Bro. Brooker 5, Bro. D. Ward 3, & Bro. F. Diplock 4.

Candidates duly elected as official branch nominations Bros. A. Brooker & F. Diplock.

It was agreed that Bro. D. Ward will be the co-opted member in the event of holidays or sickness to present L.D.C. representative.

Bro. V. Rumley moved a vote of thanks to Bro. D. Ward and Bro. Diplock for putting their names forward for L.D.C. which has not happened for a number of years at branch meetings. Proposed Bro. R. Bridger seconded by Bro. H. Love

Reports 

L.D.C. Report Bro. A. Brooker outlined the so called Final Statement of intent. This paper is of little alteration  from the preliminary statement. The meeting held at Redhill on Thursday Octobr 9^th 1969 and attended by L.D.C.s from Rehill M.T. & E.M.U.T. Tattneham Corner, Dorking, T. W . W. rejected unanimously the present form of the statement as still un-informative and asking for Secretary Council No.2 and higher management  to meet L.D.C.s.

Bro. Brooker also gave the meeting information on the superannuation and sick pay for the “Established Drivers” which he compiled and way of great value to all concerned.

The Holiday roster was submitted and a lively discussion took place. Bro. A. Brooker explained fully his roster which will commence from the first Sunday in January. He pointed out that the only weeks that may not be acceptable to management may be Christmas week and December 25^th, also reported that new duty roster to operate from 5/1/70 and wording  of annual leave minute altered: Motion put to the meeting and carried unanimously Proposed H. Love & seconded W. Baldwin.

Bro. V. Rumley gave his report on the Social Committee the retired members and their wives had an enjoyable day by first visiting the Bluebell line and tun going on to Eastbourne. He stressed the point on the low level of fund and hope that the future will being some form of money spinner to raise funds he wishes to extend his thanks to all concerned for the money raised for the old folk on the outing and that they had their drinks. The sum raise was £4.2.0.

The meeting closed at 12.45 

Members present Bros. Bro. V. Rumley, D. Ward W. Baldwin, R. Bridger, H. Love, R. Brown, A. Brooker 

& F. Diplock.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday November 16^th 1969 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. R. Brown. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence 

Letter from W. Eames Selhurst Branch, nomination ballot for Sectional Council No.2 

A good discussion took place in regards for Sectional Council No.2, with finally Bro. W. Eames of Selhurst Branch and Bro. G. Andrews of Norwood becoming the choice from this ~Branch.

Established  needs re photographing

Reports

L.D.C. reported on the New Year roster, the state of Tunbridge Wells West Sidings  and the mess room facilities at East Grinstead.

Bro. A. Brooker gave a full report  fro District Council, covering many items of including suggesting of collections from branches for deceased members, Freight Bonus, freezing vacancies, eventually using of all Diesel Traction on Southern Region the Maiden Crash and call for all members to report defective signals.

Branch Officers for 1970

Bro. A. Card, since joining T.E.S.S.A. created one vacancy on Branch Committee. One vacancy already, thereby creating two vacancies.

Proposed Bro. R. Bridger seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “That Bro. W. Baldwin fill one vacancy.”. Carried.

Proposed Bro. Diplock seconded Bro. Baldwin. “That Bro. R. Brown fill one vacancy.” Carried.

 There being no other business, the Chairman thanked the members present for their presence and closed the meeting at 12.55

Members present Bros. W. Baldwin, R. Brown, F. Diplock, R. Bridger A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday February 8^th 1970 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger  and seconded by Bro. V. Rumley. “That they were a true record.”

Reports.

L.D.C. 

Moved by Bro. Diplock seconded by  Bro. Brown. “That a letter be sent to Head Office on New Pay Forms re Mileage hours to be shown  separate from Frieght Bonus and Graduate Pension shown as full total paid to date

Moved Bro. Baldwin seconded Bro. Bridger. “That a letter be sent of to Area Shed Master re National Pay Roll to be shown as 4 different rates and not totalled as one, owning to men’s time not easily ascertained under present system.

Moved Bro. V. Rumley seconded Bro. W. Baldwin. “That L.D.C be instructed that an early consultation be obtained from higher management re electric traction and future of this depots future.

The Secretary of the L.D.C. A. Brooker reported on the failure to agree with management  on early posting of Holiday Rosta and the work being done in the matter, Payment of one weeks Holiday Pay prior to Winter Holiday computorism  of time and the system of Pay Checks in private envelopes.

Social Fund Report

Bro. R. Bridger stated that the above Funds consisted of £3.3.11 in the bank  and in 16s. 8d.

Any Other Business 

Bro. Baldwin raised the question of a fairer method to deal with the allocation of emergency work at the Depot for Rest Day Working such as when  a man went sick and  the interested members present instructed the L.D.C. to instruct the Running Foreman that they wished a man who is sent for his rest day and who declines to work is to have the day entered against his name as having worked.”

There being no other business the Chairman thanked members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.50

Members present Bros. W. Baldwin, R. Bridger, F. Diplock R. Brown V. Rumley, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday March 22^nd 1969 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence

Death of General secretary Bro. Griffiths, Bro. R. Bridger proposed and Bro.Baldwin seconded endorsing Branch Secretary action in sending wreath to Bro. Griffiths.

Branch Secretary report telephone call from Bro. Andrews of Norwood and a letter received by L.D.C.  from Bro. Andrews this was excepted as information.

District Council Report from Bro. A. Brooker, again a lucid report from our delegate consisting of items as

Death of General Secretary Bro. A. Griffiths, resignation of District Council Chairman Bro. A. Cowald of Feltham, collections for deceased members, District Council Fund standing at £74.2.6. compenstation as £30,823 paid for December quarter, resulting in a final payment for 1969 of £105,092.

Sectional council election, Industrial Diseases, The 10% claim, uniform, Passenger mileage Bonus, increase for mileage payment not made for A/O unless a shunt is made, new Stock, loss of earnings, claim for mileage lost to be made, Transport Closure, Stage 3 P&E etc.The L.D.C. report consisted of mileage bonus payment, payslips, driver tickets, electrification etc., Complaints of P.W. men not wearing jackets provided.

The minutes past at the last meeting re Rest Days that providing not to be applied if if have previously carried out minute re 3 days.

There being no other business the chairman thanked members present for their attendance and closed the meeting at 13.10.

Members present Bros. H. Love, W. Baldwin, R. Bridger, K. Savage & A. Brooker.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday June 14^th 1970 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and as there were no two members from the last meeting to propose and second a true record. Bro. R. Bridger and by Bro. D. Ward. Seconded “The minutes as read.”

Correspondence were read.

Quite a good discussion followed in which several anomalies were ably explained by Bro. Brooker on Long Distance Mileage and Short Distance Passenger Mileage bonus scheme.

The new Superannuation scheme for salaried staff also met with good discussion.

Reports

Bro. A. Brooker in his L.D.C. report dealt with many items including meeting with Mr. Organ and Mr. Greenfield in March, sectional council at Southern house in April. Lighting of buffer stops, also Bay Road platform at Eridge, P.W. safety jackets, claim for extra prep. And disposal times in adverse weather conditions due to bad lighting and walking space between sidings at Tunbridge Wells West, noise on D.E.M.U.s, payment of odd minutes, supply of working late issue. L.D.C. consultative meeting with Sectional council . The Branch chairman then asked for an endorsement from the floor to allow the Branch Secretary to hire a car to tour the main routes of the town should the Sectional Council Representative arriving whilst the Branch Chairman is on annual leave. Carried.

There being no other business the chairman thanked the members for their attendance and brought the meeting to a close at 1.15 p.m.

Members present Bros. D. Ward, F. Diplock, H. Love, R. Bridger, K. Savage & A. Brooker.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday July 26^th 1970 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and Bro. F. Diplock seconded. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was read

A good discussion developed over the abolition of Rest Day working and the Society’s policy was ably explained by the Chairman Bro. A. Brooker.

L.D.C. Report

The Chairman dealt with meetings recently held including Working Party Meeting at Redhill on 10^th June over turns implicating Norwood, Redhill, Brighton & Stewarts Lane.

Working Party meeting held at Tunbridge Wells 13^th July where the chairman and L.D.C. escorted same in Chairman’s car, to show bottlenecks at Road Junction at Tunbridge Wells re visiting of New Station. Working Party meeting held at Essex House 16^th July. Notice posted by management over speeds; and reply to same sent by Chairman of L.D.C. of defective speedos and run down of D.E.M.U.s  a further meeting at Tunbridge Wells with Mr. Edwards, Patterson and Ibbotson re future policy of depot where it was stated that it was anticipated to install £7,000 worth of lighting equipment for the future electrification program of Grove Junction to Birchden Junction in phase 1, Stage 1 in the installation of  ------   --------------- for electric units from 1936 to ----- and the closing of Tunbridge Wells West as ----- -----------  when the Hastings line becomes electrified when services would change ------  electrified Depot

A letter had been written by secretary ----- to Head Office on behalf of Bro. P. Pepper 

Needs re – photographing

There being no other business, the Chairman thanked the members for their presence and brought the meeting to a close at 1o/c p.m.

Members present Bros V. Rumley, R. Bridger, F. Diplock, W. Baldwin, R. Brown, A. Brooker & K. Savage.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday October 11^th 1970 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. V. Rumley and Bro. W. Baldwin seconded. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was reading, consisting of acknowledgement letter from Head Office re inquiries into medical examinations including Hearing Tests, and B.R.B. Pension Fund deductions were received.

Nomination for one candidate L.D.C. 

It was moved by Bro. V. Rumley and seconded by F. Diplock “That no action be taken re nominations from this Branch for L.D.C. vacancy.”

A vigorous discussion took place again over Rest Day Working and the posting of topical and vital Society correspondence to be posted in case at depot, it was pointed out to members that without their attendance at Branch meetings to instruct the officers to do same, no individual officer had the power to do this.

Reports

The Secretary of the L.D.C. reported on various items taken up recently with Management including letters on lighting at Tunbridge Wells West, Oxted Mess Room & Sidings, noise level on D.E.M.U.s, diagrams alterations and new colour proposed for same.

Bro. A. Brooker then reported on the last District Council No.4 meeting including many other interesting items a questionnaire supplied by Bro. W. Williams for guidance to members and established status membership.

There being no other business, the Chairman thanked members for their presence and closed the meeting at 12.50

Members present Bros. V. Rumley, W. Baldwin, F. Diplock, A. Brooker, K. Savage & D. Ward.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday December 13^th 1970 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

Before opening the meeting, Chairman Bro. A. Brooker apologies for the unintended implication that Bro. D. Ward was not fitted for L.D.C. duties.

The chairman then opened  the meeting at 10.30 p.m. The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. V. Rumley  and Bro. F. Diplock seconded. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was then read.

Reports

Bro. A. Brooker gave an L.D.C. report with various items including Christmas Period Roster, letter to Bros. Dickenson & W. Haywood re line closure, meeting with Mr. Greenfield and Mr. Russell C.M.E. and the terrible maintenance state of D.E.M.U.s 9 units but for the good grace of drivers could be failed immediately and a further meeting and same which would take place in January 1971.

Bro. A. Brooker then gave his previous District Council meeting report including items on Regional percentage Rest Day working, a disturbing letter from Hither Green re men who suffer ill health, E.C. report, road learning payments, uniform clothing and compensation claims.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to close at 1 o/c p.m. thanking all members present for their attendance.

Members present Bros. R. Bridger, V. Rumley, F. Diplock, K. Savage & A. Brooker.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday January 24^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and Bro. F. Diplock seconded. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was then read

Question on minutes

A vigorous discussion took place over the Industrial Relation Bill, re circular reference No. 7/1971, “National Outdoor Demonstration.” And it was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. “That it be laid on table.” Carried unam.

Bro. V . Rumley proposed and Bro. F. Diplock seconded that the T.U.C. Petition against the Industrial Relation Bill be posted in depot.

Reports

Bro. A. Brooker the L.D.C. Secretary gave a full report on items including siting of lighting in sidings with 3 towers 55ft high 3 @ 750 watts and 9 @ watt. Proposed hours of payment of wages, meetings concerning D.E.M.U.s and failure rate, matter to Mr. Barrows re decimalisation of deductions Southern Region intent. Future meeting of Sectional Council “B” and suggestions of subsidy for bus companies from county rates.

It was agreed that the venue of meeting be the Welfare Rooms, Central Station, the time being as and when requires. A vote of thanks was given to the retiring minute Secretary Bro. K. Savage for his pass services

Any Other Business

Bro. H. Love asked if the L.D.C. would look into the possibility of having a ramp erected at 9 car marks at East Grinsrtead and Uckfield to assist the descent from driving cabs.

The Chairman thanked members for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.45 p.m.

Members present Bros. R. Bridger, V. Rumley, W. Baldwin, D. Dores, F. Diplock, K. Savage, A. Brooker & H. Love.  

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday March 28^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro.V. Rumley and Bro. W. Baldwin seconded. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence was then read

Election of Assistant Secretary Cir 32/1971 it was proposed by Bto. V. Rumley and seconded by Bro. K. Savage. “That a letter of congratulations be forwarded to Bro. D.K. Pullen on his attaining of the position of Assistant General Secretary.” Carried unam.

Rates of Pay Circ 33/1971,  it was moved by Bro. V. Rumley and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. “That this communication concerning forthcoming industrial action be posted, and that the Branch Secretary to be given a free hand to post subsequent circulars and instructions in this matter.” Carried unam.

There followed a full discussion on the present pay negotaitions and the threatened “work to rule” resulting from same. Bro. A. Brooker gave a clear and concise analysis of the latest B.R. pay offer. Bro. K. Savage stated that this Society must maintain the rate differential.

Reports

Bro. A. Brooker the District Council Delegate delivered a full report a nd both Special and Ordinary District Council meetings. The  former concerning the industrial relations bill. The latter dealing with E.C. recommendation to A.A..D. to increase contributions from 20p to 25p. Wages, rest Day working, uniform clothing, watches for footplatemen staff. Chairman of RSNT., investments Sectional Council elections, consolidations and manning of U.S.F. D.M.U.

Bro. A. Brooker the L.D.C. Secretary then delivered the L.D.C report includiong such items as assistance given to the secretary of the local branch of the N.U.R. in respect of a claim they are perusing on behalf of a member arising from the poor lighting in Tunbridge Wells West yard. Bro. A. Brooker alluded to his previous L.D.C. report in which he outlined details of the proposed new lighting . this work is now in the hand. Bro Brooker then reported an up to date position in respect of D.E.M.U. failures and booking thereof, special reference was made to the experimental engine room door fitted to unit 1317. on conclusion of this full report.

There being no other business, the chairman thanked the members for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.55 p.m.

Members present Bros V. Rumley, W. Baldwin, F. Diplock, K. Savage, D. Dore & A. Brooker

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday June 13^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved by Bro. K. Savage and Bro. R. Bridger seconded. “That they were a true record.”

Correspondence 

There followed a full and frank discussion on Minimums Earnings Level as outlined in Circular 52/1971 and certain reservations were expressed from the floor, concerning the many anomalies inherent in these proposals. 

Further discussion then took place a on the new “Work content” bonus proposals to supercede the present Short Mileage Pass. Train bonus. It was felt by the majority that any simplification of bonuses was to the advantage of all. Bro. A.C. Brooker pointed out, however that at our depot most turns of high “Work Content” would already be covered by long mileage bonus.

It was moved by Bro. K. Savage, seconded by Bro. R. Bridger and carried. “That the National League of Blind Appeal be posted in the Booking Hall, T.W.W. Station. 

Reports

Bro A. Brooker on his L.D.C. Secretary the delivered the L.D.C. report. This included reference to the unsatisfactory level of noise in the motor coach cab of D.E.M.U. No. 1306, the repeated booking of same and the letter from the Area Depot Manager in reply to the L.D.C. on the complaint of Bro. G. Hallam. It was explained by Bro. A. Brooker, that Bro. Hallam had informed the A.D.M. of his intentions not to work Unit 1306 until the cab had been rendered less noisy. Bro. Brooker then dealt with the amended hours for payment of wages as proposed by management. It was proposed by Bro. K. Savage and seconded by Bro. H. Love. “That the L.D.C. do not accept any amendment of payment hours which would curtail closure of payment facilities before 19:45 hours each night. This motion was carried.

The L.D.C.report was concluded.

The Branch the congratulated Bro. D. Dore, the Branch Secretary on his successful attainment of a place at T.U.C. Summer School, York University 1971.

There being no other business, the Chairman thanked members for their attendance and closed the meeting at 12.50

Members present Bros. R. Bridger, K. Savage, H. Love, D. Dore & A. Brooker.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday August 8^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved, that they be accepted as read.

Reports

The report of the District Council meeting was then delivered by D. C. delegate. A concise account of the meeting was received, including the present financial difficulties of Southern Region and the anticipated economy measures.

The L.D.C. report was delivered by the L.D.C. Secretary. This included reference to the L.D.C.’s  attempt to negotiate with management on the withdrawal of the depot time-keeper on Sundays. Although abrogating on existing L.D.C. minute, the management  have refused to negotiate with the L.D.C. on this issue.

Any Other Business

It was proposed, seconded and carried, that in future all Head Office Circulars would be posted by the Secretary at the depot, for information of all members and would not, therefore be treated as correspondence at Branch meetings. Matters arising from posted circulars can be dealt with as agenda items.

It was proposed, seconded and carried. That in respect of Extra Sunday Bookings the L.D.C. be instructed to ensure that the appropriate L.D.C. minute be strictly adhered to.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 12. 50. 

Seven members present

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday September 19^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved, that they be accepted as read.

Reports.

The L.D.C. Secretary delivered the L.D.C. report which included reference to the winter diagrams, the intended withdrawal of the Warship class diesel hydraulics and subsequent Crompton Type 3 shortage, also the shunting of Tunbridge Wells West Yard, and the repositioning of lighting in same.

Nominations for L.D.C. Candidates, the following members were nominated for the L.D.C.

Bros. F. Diplock, A. Brooker, & A. Young.

Bros. D. Ward and W. Baldwin declined to be nominated as candidates.

Any Other Business

It was proposed, seconded and carried. “That Bro. G. Andrews, Sectional Council to be invited to address the branch at the October meeting.

It was proposed, seconded and carried. “That Bro. M. MacMillian of Tonbridge, M.P.D., be invited to address the branch on the subject of his travels in the Churchill Travelling Fellowship. It was further proposed that this be at a special combined meeting with Tonbridge Branch.

The matter of Boxing Day booking for 1971 was then raised, and it was carried that L.D.C. minutes be strictly adhered to.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 12.45 p.m.

Ten members were present.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday October 17^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved, that they be accepted as read.

Reports.

The L.D.C. Secretary delivered the L.D.C. report which included reference to the yard lighting at Tunbridge Wells West Yard have been moved in accordance with a request by the L.D.C. It was further mentioned that the new lighting position still does not meet entirely with drivers requirements. Some discussion of this point was allowed by the Chairman. Clarification of the position in respect of L.D.C. minute 25, shed staff was also given. The L.D.C. Secretary then concluded his full and concise report.

L.D.C. Elections

Votes for the candidates nominated at the September meeting were taken and recorded as follows.

Bro. F. Diplock 4 votes, A. Brooker 4 votes & Bro. A. Young nil votes.

There being two positions on the L.D.C. staff side, Bros. Diplock & Brooker therefore became the official Society candidates.

Address

The Chairman then introduced the guest speaker Bro. G. Andrews, vice Chairman, Sectional Council no.2. Bro. Andrews delivered an interesting report on the work of Sectional Council, including the Statement of Intent on the future depots and the £600,000,000 Corperate Plan. The address was warmly received and on conclusion a vote of thanks to Bro. Andrews was moved.

Any Other Business

The matter of shunting D.E.M.U. stock in Tunbridge Wells West Yard was raised and discussion followed. No resolution passed.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 12.50. 

Seven members were present.

  Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday March 12^th 1972 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary and it was moved, that they were a true record.

Election of Officers 1972

Chairman Bro. A. Brooker, Vice Chairman R. Bridger, Secretary Bro. D. Dore, Assistant Secretary F. Diplock.

Committee Bros. K. Savage, W. Baldwin, V. Rumley, C. Hallett, A Daugherty, A. Young & P. Pepper.

District Council No.4 Delegate Bros. A. Brooker, F. Diplock & V. Rumley

Trade Council Delegates Bros R. Bridger, A. Brooker, V. Rumley & F. Diplock

Scrutineers Bros. K. Savage, F. Diplock & W. Baldwin

It was proposed and seconded “That to ensure a bi – monthly meetings and a special evening meeting may the assistant officers could call a special meetings be conviened at the discretion of the Brach Officers.” Carried.

District council Report

Bro. A. Brooker then delivered a concise report on the District Council meeting. This included references to the open meeting at New Cross on 17^th February, 1972, the reduction of staff in B.R. Workshops (Ashford & Swindon) and the cute in the loco and wagon building programme. Rest Day Working and the 500 surplus footplate staff on the Eastern Region, mileage payments, High Density Stock and London Allowance increases were reported upon, also noise levels in the cabs of D.E.M.U. stock.

L.D.C. report

Bro. A. Brooker, the L.D.C. secretary then delivered a short L.D.C. report. Further reference was paid to the “Shed Staff” position as previously reported.

Any Other Business

It was proposed and seconded. “That Trade Council Delegates, Bros. A. Brooker & R. Bridger should attend the dinner to be given for Bro. Tapp. Carried.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 12.30. 

Five members were present

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday April 16^th 1971 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the minute secretary.

Matters Arising from the minutes of the last meeting. It was started by a member present that the minutes should be amended as follows.

Election of Officers 1972 “Trades Council Delegate add – Bro. R. Bridger.

Agenda item re – Bi-monthly and normal meetings, add The Assistant Officers may call a Sunday Branch Meeting.

It was moved and seconded that the minutes as amended be adopted as a true record.” Carried

L.D.C. report

Bro. A. Brooker, L.D.C. Secretary, then delivered the L.D.C. Report. This included reference to the proposed installation of an additional in T.W. yard. The delivery of lockers of the cube type to be investigated, and a claim regarding the wardrobe type locker to replace these to be progressed.

Any Other Business

Reference was paid to meeting at Wimbledon and Victoria outlining the proposed cuts in train services from 1^st May 1972.

The Chairman adjourned the meeting at 11.10.

An Open Meeting was the conveined dealing with dispute commencing on Monday 17^th April 1972.

The Chairman reopened the Branch Meeting and there being no other business, declared the meeting closed at 12.45

There were 18 members present

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday July 9^th 1972 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last were read by the Assistant secretary.

Matters arising from the minutes of the last meeting, it was pointed out that the word normal be deleted from sentence to over agenda item bi-monthly meeting or special meeting. It was moved and seconded that the minutes as amended be adopted as true record.

Correspondence

Minutes of Trade Council were read and included references to a collection for old people. It was pointed out that were a collection made at Tunbridge Wells West depot, all monies collected passed to a delegated member on Trade Council, and responsibility for payment, and use of moves to help old people to be shown on an account or balance sheet, or distribution to branches who make contribution to cause.

District Council Report

Bro. A. Brooker gave his report of the meeting on July 3^rd 1972. the meeting opened with the observance of once minutes silence in respect of the dead in the Eltham Well Hall disaster. Points raised included managements promise of an early meeting with Sectional Council B on Time Table for 1973, although no change could expected an Brighton/Portsmouth services. Southern Region have pressed Ministry regarding grants for 1973, which ties up with completion of 1973 Time Table.

Detailed report D.E.M.U. services Tonbridge – Redhill sent to Ministry to obtain extention of grant. This rate will only be retained because of freight traffic as Channel Tunnel route still undecided. Cost of this route renders this no longer viable. Any electrification authorised would start with East Grinstead/Oxted and Tonbridge/Hastings.

Correspondence books to be discontinued, and loose leaf headed note paper to be substituted. Point made re loss of record by this new practice and of continuity by change of L.D.C. or Branch Secretary.

L.D.C. Reports

The L.D.C. Secretary reported on correspondence he had had with the A.D.M. as the new doors being fitted to the D.E.M. Units and the poor quality of door catches stressed the superior type of handle fitted to Unit 1317, which has now been tested for over 12 months and has well stood up to use.

Meeting with C.M.E.E. as the modification of fuses in auxiliary cupboard since the explosion of unit 1306. References made to Annual Leave vacant date application.

Rejection of an extra light in the yard owing to the cost being £1,500, and correspondence still on progress on new wardrobe type lockers.

Any Other Business

Bro. W. Baldwin spoke of his concern at the earnings level at Tunbridge Wells West Depot in to other Mixed Traction  Depots on the Central Division. He feels that the amount of special workings that these depots are booked at weekends, should be shared out more fairly. So in this context he is to write to the A.D.M. explaining his feelings on this subject, asking for Diesel Locomotive training so enabling him to participate in ballast workings etc.

It was agrees that further discussion of this subject will be progressed at the next Branch meeting.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 13.00 

Four members were present

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday October 22nd 1972 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Secretary, it was moved moved and seconded that they were a true record. Carried.

Matters arising

A question was raised in connection with issue of branch and L.D.C. correspondence books. The Secretary referred to an a item of correspondence that was to be red lster

Bro. A. Brooker the L.D.C. Secretary then delivered the L.D.C. Report. This report referred to the following topic dealt with since the last Branch Meeting

The 1973 timetable, the yard lighting, Mixed Traction status – Traction Training, Annual Leave wages collection, Lockers – wardrobe type.

The L.D.C. Secretary also referred to a letter re unit 1306 and the lack of reply on this subject from Head Office. The latest position re Driver C. Smith – Traction Training was clarified and a letter on the subject from Area Depot Manager was read.

Reference: was also paid to the unsatisfactory fitting of swing type engine room doors on D.E.M.U. Stock. 

L.D.C. Nomination

The Chairman called for nominations for an official Society candidate to serve on the L.D.C. for the forthcoming term. There were no nominations from the floor.

Any Other Business

It was proposed, seconded and carried. “That this Branch instructs the Secretary to write to both District Council and Head Office on the subject of the recent letter in the Sunday Telegraph concerning the possibility of further massive rail cuts involving the curtailing of the national network to a mere 7,000 miles. Further that the Secretary should urge District Council and Head Office to liase with other railway unions with the view to organising token industrial action in order to bring public attention to the hardship that would be caused if such cuts were implemented.

There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 12.30

6 members were present.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday December 12^th 1972 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Secretary. It was then moved and seconded and that they were a true record. Carried.

It was moved and seconded that Bro. B. Noakes be voted to 1973 A.A.D. Carried

It was moved and seconded that Bro. Ashkettle be voted to the Parliamentary Panel. Carried

The Branch then gave their approval to the prior nomination by the Chairman and Secretary of Bro Andrews for Sectional Council ‘B’.

It was proposed from the chair that the appeal from Briant Print Work-in Committee be laid on the table. Seconded and Carried.

Bro. A. Brooker then delivered the District Council Report. This was a lenghty and concise report covering many current topics including Rest Day Working, A.PT./H.S.D.T. London Allowance and the re-signalling of London Bridge.

Bro. A. Brooker then delivered the L.D.C. Report. This included reference to the following, lockers, consolidation on daily basis, uniforms, driver C. Smith, Boxing Day Workings 1972.

The Chairman then called for nominations for Branch Officers to serve in 1973. the following were nominated and seconded.

Chairman Bro. A. Brooker, Vice Chairman R. Bridger, Secretary Bro. W. Baldwin and Bro. D. Dore (Bro. D. Dore declined nomination) and Assistant Secretary Bro. F. Diplock. Scrutineer Bro. R. Bridger. There were no nominations for the Branch Committee nor for Branch Trustee.

Any Other Business

It was moved, seconded and carried. That the Secretary be instructed to write a letter of protest to the Area Depot Manager and Sectional Council ‘B’ re the late posting of Boxing Day working in views of  abnormal requirements.

There being no further business the Chairman closed the meeting at 13.00

6 members were present.

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday January 21^st 1973 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were then read by the Secretary, and it was moved and seconded that they were a true record. Carried.

There followed the elections of officers 1973  in accordance with nominations taken at the last meeting. Officers were duly elected

Chairman Bro. A. Brooker, Vice Chairman R. Bridger, Secretary W. Baldwin & Assistant Secretary F. Diplock.

Branch Committee

Bros. K. Savage, D. Dore, V. Rumley, A. Dagherty, A. Young & P. Pepper.

All the above officers were elected unanimously. Voting the following voting and nomination paper received from Head Office were then voted upon.

Nomination of E.C. Member, it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. V. Rumley. That Bro. G. Andrews be nominated from this branch. Carried unanimously

 Further that this Branch is incensed at yet another example of abrogation of local agreements and instructs the L.D.C. to call an emergency branch meeting to organise total reaction to any future breach of L.D.C. minutes.”

It was moved and seconded and carried that this resolution be adopted.

The Chairman then closed the meeting at 13.00hrs., 

there being 6 members present.

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday April 11^th 1973 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved and seconded that they were a true record.

Bro. V. Rumley questions the present position re the protest letter in connection with the 1972 Boxing Day workings and was concerned whether the same positions could arise with the 1973 Easter workings. Bro. A. Brooker the L.D.C. Secretary informed Bro. RRumley that there was correspondence on the subject of the 1972 Boxing Day workings in the L.D.C. report and would give the present position re 1973 Easter Workings with it.

Longs Service Badges Awards

W. Gents 30 years, H. Love & I. Breeds 10 years

District Council report

Bro. A. Brooker District Council Delegate then once his report of District Council meeting at 26^th February 1973 and because of relevant issues within the report, there immediately followed a full discussion on letters from Bro. H. Love, both to the Branch Secretary and L.D.C. Secretary on his disagreement with the interpretation made on 12 on E.C. Resolution No. Re the working of extra Sundays during the period of non cooperation with management.

The L.D.C. Secretary Bro. A. Brooker read out copy of  letter sent Bro   over letter from Bro. H. Love together with letters to and from Bro. F. Page Branch Secretary Tonbridge and Bro. Pearman L.D.C. Secretary Redhill. In letter of reply from Bro. Williams, he stated, quote that is quite obvious that the situation at Tunbridge Wells and at other depots arose out of a genuine misunderstanding and lack of guidance it is something that  will require much closer attention office level, should a similar circumstance arise again.

It was proposed by Bro. V. rumley and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger, that in any future event of instructive circulars of this nature to be posted a branch committee meeting be called for correct interpretation of same and that all members with any query of circulars or letter posted to approach branch secretary immediately so that he may get a decision without delay.

It was moved by Bro. V. Rumley and seconded Bro. R. Bridger. “That Branch Chairman and Secretary be absolved of any criticism over item 12 of resolution No. – this was voted 3 for 1 against.

Report

Bro. A. Brooker then gave his report this covered information on letter from N.U.R. to L.M. Region on multiple aspect signalling failures and irregulatities, list if people  to whom train drivers case booklets were forwarded to and correspondence on local issues covering uniform  clothing , further correspondence on car park site, instruction on Sunday duties before within and after annual holidays, present position on 9 car stopping mark at Edenbridge Town. Letter to A.D.M.  re new door handle on unit 1310 and correspondence on 1972 Boxing Day workings and waited information on 1973 Boxing Day and 1973 Easter workings.

Any Other Business

Bro. V. Rumley proposed that as the past Branch Secretary was off sick and was not at the meeting, that the Branch Secretary write and forward a vote of thanks and appreciation for his work and time given to the branch during his time as branch secretary this was seconded by Bro R. Bridger, together with a unaminous vote of thanks from all members present.

The branch Secretary put forward how his work could be made easier and at less cost to Head Office if he has a telephone at his residence. It was moved, seconded and carried. “That the Secretary should write to Head Office and enquired if telephones are installed for Branch Secretaries or if they would be prepared to pay the cost or part of the cost for one to be installed.”

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 1300hrs.

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday July 8^th 1973 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock that they were a true record.

Matters arising

It was carried unanimously at the January Branch meeting, that Bro. G. Andrews be nominated from this branch for election of E.C. member and due to the voting papers arriving after the April meeting requiring to be at Head Office before the July meeting, it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. K. Savage. “That a Branch endorsement be given to the action taken in getting papers to Head Officer by 4^th July 1973. Carried unanimously

Branch Banking

Due to the non existence of coop bank in Tunbridge Wells, the Branch Secretary has found difficulties arising when dealing with branch finance and has made arrangements through Head Office and locally for the Tunbridge Wells West Branch banking to be made through the National Westminster bank. Address 89 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

These arrangements are divided into three accounts.

1, an account with a paying in book for money to be paid into the Head Office  account i.e. ASLEF diary payments

2, an account to change cheques from Head Office for payments to members when required with maximum of £150 a month.

3, a private account for Tunbridge Wells West branch only.

The Secretary brought the position of the Money Bank to the attention of the meeting and it was decided to give the ---- and leave to for discussion at the next meeting

The future of the old Mutual Aid, and it was moved Bro. K. Savage and seconded by Bro. R. Bridger “That a vote of thanks be given.” The Branch Chairman and Secretary for their work in arranging the Branch Banking System.

Bro. R. Dickenson

Due to Branch Secretary’s Holidays etc. it was found to be impossible to call a Branch meeting in time to get voting papers to Head Office for the election of one delegate to the Labour Party Conference ’73. It was moved by Bro. F. Dipllock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger “That  a Branch endorsement be given to the action taken in nominating Bro. R. Dickenson for the Labour Party Conference  ‘73” Agreed Unanimously.

It was moved, seconded and carried “That the Secretary should write to the Secretary of the East Sussex Travellers Association for information on the Private Plan put forward to close the Edenbridge  - Eridge section of line and route all traffic through Tonbridge.

Bro. A. Brooker then gave his L.D.C. report, this covered correspondence on holiday roster 1974, and Tunbridge Wells West L.D.C. minutes and minutes required for D. Goddens accident

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13:00 Hrs.

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday September 16^th 1973 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger that they were a true record.

The question of financial appeals was brought to the attention of the meeting and given a full discussion by all present. It was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “That successive branch financial appeals not to be posted until being subject to a lapse this to be at the discretion of Branch Chairman and Secretary.

The future of the Mutual Aid Fund was again bought to the attention of the meeting and a proposal for its use, that was put foreward to the branch was read and explained by the chairman. This proposal was fully discussed, and acceptable by all members present. It was agreed that a letter explaining the foundation of the fund, for what purposes it was founded, the reasons why it was necessary that it should be re-examined, and the present financial position of the fund should be posted, together with a copy of the new amended rules, on the branch notice board, for all members attention so that if they wish, they may become members of the fund.

East Sussex Travellers Associations 

Letter of reply from Honorary Secretary, East Sussex Travellers Association with assurances of no support to the plan to close the Edenbridge to Eridge portion of the line and re-route traffic via Tonbridge. 

It was also agreed that a copy of the explanatory letter and rules to be kept in the branch minute book.

It was proposed by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger. “That Bro. A.Brooker the nominated as Tunbridge Wells Branch for 1974 A.A.D. delegatge in group 40, and that Secretary should with branches in group 40, for their support for Bro. Brooker.

It was proposed by Bro. Brooker and seconded seconded F. Diplock “That Bro. Williams be nominated from this branch for Parliamentary Panel, but that before sending nomination form to Head Office, secretary should write to Bro. Williams and ask if he would be willing to be nominated for this position at this time.

District Council Report

Bro. Brooker, District Council Delegate gave his report on meeting at East Croydon on 9^th July 1973 and followed by giving his L.D.C. Report..

The following members were nominated as candidates for the L.D.C.

Bro. A. Brooker proposed by F. Diplock and seconded by R. Bridger.

Bro. F. Diplock proposed by W. Baldwin and seconded R. Bridger.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13:00

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

 Sunday November 11^th 1973 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock  that they were a true record.

Nomination for was completed and forwarded to Head Office on behalf of Bro. Brooker as delegate for the 1974 A.A.D. to group 40 and branch secretary wrote to Secretaries of Brighton (1) & (2), Eastbourne, Horsham, Ore, and Seaford for their support to Bro. Brooker.

Branch Secretary wrote to Bro. W. Williams to see if would be willing to be nominated for Parliamentary Panel and his reply; he thanked the Branch for considering him for the position, but was sorry he would not be able to accept our nomination at this time.

Correspondence

Lewes & Uckfield Joint Rail Committee

It was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded F. Diplock. “That Secretary shoulkd forward £2 to Mrs C. Gowtton, Secretary, Lewes & Uckfield Joint Rail Committee, towards expenses of meeting on September 26^th ’73. 

L.D.C. Report

This report covered Mutual Aid Fund, requirements on Circulars 118/119/1973, walk-ways and detonators in taxis.

District No.4 Report

The Branch District Council Delegate then gave a full report on D.C.4 meeting held on October 29^th, ’73.

L.D.C. Voting

Votes for the candidates nominated at the September meeting wee then taken and recorded as follows.

It was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. W. Baldwin. “That Bros. A. Brooker and F. Diplock are voted as official L.D.C. Candidates.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13:00Hrs.

4 members present.

 Tunbridge Wells Meeting

Sunday February 17^th 1974 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger  that they were a true record.

Matters arising

Parliamentary Panel

Due to the difficulty of finding an alternative Branch Room for the January Annual General Meeting and because Bro. W. Williams had declined nomination from this branch, it was necessary for the branch chairman and secretary to decided and foreward to Head Office an alternative for the Parliamentary Panel. It  was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “That a full branch endorsement be given to the action taken in voting for Bro. G. Andrews from this branch.” Carried  Unanimously.

Lewes and Uckfield Joint Rail Committee

A letter of thanks received from Mrs Gowtton, Secretary, was read to members thanking them for the £2.00 sent from this Branch as help towards the expences of their meeting on the 26^th September, 1973. 

Nominations of Election of Branch Officers 1974

It was proposed seconded and unanimously accepted by all members present that the Branch Officer for 1974 to be the same as 1973 with the following exception.

It was proposed Bro. A. Brooker seconded Bro. R. Brown and accepted that Bro. W.  Baldwin be scrutineer for 1974.

It was proposed Bro. K. Cavie, seconded Bro. R. Bridger and accepted that Bro. R. Brown should fill the (1) Branch Officer vacancy and the Branch Officers were duly elected as follows.

Chairman A. Brooker, Vice Chairman R. Bridger, Secretary W. Baldwin, Ass. Sec F. Diplock, Scrutineer Bro. W. Baldwin.

Branch Committee

Bros K. Savage, R. Brown, V. Rumley, A. Dougherty, A. Young & P. Pepper.

District Council Bro. A. Broker

Trades Council Delegates Bros. A. Brooker & R. Bridger

Trustee Bro. K. Savage.

Financial Report

The branch secretary gave the financial report of the Branch for the year ending  31^st December ’73. This gave figure of  Branch expenditures during the past year of the branch funds deposited in the National Westminster Bank account, Mutual Aid Fund account in Bristol & West Building Society and cash in hand.

On completion of his report it was proposed Bro. R. bridger, seconded Bro. F. diplock. “That the Branch Financial statement be accepted as a true record.”

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. secretary Bro. A. Brooker gave a full report on the local issues being attended to by the committee and brought to special attention of the meeting, New Bank Holiday Rosters as proposed by the L.D.C. He gave a detailed talk on the necessity for changes to be made and on various principles that had been examined for doing so it was proposed Bro. K. Cavie and seconded Bro. Dougherty “That Mi. 10 to be recinded and a new minute 16 be replaced on principle  No.2 of the L.D.c. propose this was unanimously agreed by all members present.

Any Other Business

Bro. K. Cavie expressed his concern of the uncertainity  of drivers at this and other depots on the exact interpretation and procedure of the policy of non cooperation as instructed by the E.C. to all members implement. He pointed out that on several occasions it was noticeable that any one man would do what another man realiose  in following the policy of non cooperation and it was proposed by Bro. K. Cavie and seconded Bro A. Dougherty. “That if after the General Election, the situation returned to as before a special meeting would be called so that an agreed procedure to the E.C. instructions could be determined and carried out. This was unanimously agreed by all members present.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.15 Hrs.

 Tunbridge Wells Meeting

Sunday April 28^th 1974 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock  that they were a true record.

The Branch Chairman pointed out ti the members, that due to the importance  of the issues to be explained, discussed and voted on within the L.D.C. report, it was necessary that this report was the next item to be given a full discussion at the meeting.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary Bro. A. Brooker explained that after examining the contents  of the proposed May 6^th workings. The L.D.C. unanimously agreed that they were totally unacceptable and asked management for a meeting to get improvements on the contents of the diagram workings.

A meeting was arranged for the L.D.C. to meet Sectional Council (B) and management on the 19^th April ’74 and further meetings were held on the 24^th & 27^th April ’74 all with no agreeable improvements made and the L.D.C. informed management that they would put position to the members at the Branch meeting arranged for Sunday 28^th April ’74.

The contents of the workings were examine questioned and given a full diiscusin by all members present and it was proposed by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. M. Allen. “That a vote of confidence be given on the action taken by the L.D.C. on this matter and this Branch fully supports and endorse the Representations made. This was agreed unanimously.

It was moved by Bro. K. Cavie and seconded Bro. D. Godden. “That an interim roster be accepted until 17^th May ’74 and that the diagrammed PC/TC/PB & BTH be strictly adhered to and all units stable  and position as instructed on the diagram workings and it was moved by Bro. L. Stephenson and seconded Bro. D. Ward. “That the following resolutions are carried at this meeting.

Resolution (1)

This branch only accepts the interim roster for S.X. duties for 6^th – 10^th & 13^th – 17^th on the basis of the clear understanding that the demand for a joint L.D.C.s Victoria and Tunbridge Wells West meeting be met by the management with the interim of improving the mileage and content of the diagrams as presented at the meeting of Saturday 27^th April 1974. Carried by a small majority.

Resolution (2)

This Branch instructs the L.D.C. and Branch Secretary to advise management and interested parties, including Area Organiser and S.C. “B”. That in the event offailure to obtain improvement in the diagram contents the drivers at this depot will only report for duty at 06.00 & 14.00Hrs as from May 20^th 1974. Carried Unanimously

Consolidatary Payment Areas.

The L.D.C. Secretary informed the members that he was unable to finalise this as he was awaiting  a reply from Head Office to a letter dated 2^nd April 197. Criticism was made by the members of the time lapse of no reply when it only required; either confirmation of agreement made, or a subsequently amended and B ranch Secretary was instructed to write to Head Office on this matter.

The L.D.C. Secretary completed his report on outstanding issues i.e. Car Parking, Bank Holidays etc. and was thanked by all members present.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.00Hrs.

13 members were present.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

Sunday July 14^th 1974 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were taken as read.

Matters Arising

The L.D.C. Secretary Bro. A. Brooker explained the acceptance by the L.D.C. of the revised May 6^th workings and it was agreed that the L.D.C. decision on this matter be given the full support of the Branch and the Branch Secretary instructed to advise the Area Depot Manager and Secretary Sectional Council (B) of this. Agreed Unanimously.

Consolidation Payment Areas

The Branch Secretary wrote to Head Office on this matter on the 7^th & 30^th May ’74 and forwarded the reply to the L.D.C. , this was accepted and arrangements were made for each driver to receive £1.94 Consolidation Payment Areas. The depot figure for the nationally agreed week.

Voting Paper For Vacancy Sectional Council “B”

It was unanimously agreed that Bro. B. Noakes Brighton No.2 be voted for the position from this Branch.

Trade Council Information

As Tunbridge Wells Branch is already affiliated to the Tunbridge Wells Trade Council with a recorded Branch Trades Council Delegate, only conformation of this required to be forward to Head Office.

District Council No.4 Report

The District Council Delegate gave his report of the D.C. 4 meeting at Croydon o the 8^th July ’74 and spoke of the possible recall of the 1974 A.A.D. when the findings of the R.S.N.T. were announced.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary Bro. A. Brooker gave his report to the branch, this covered outstanding issues, further points on depot car parking and mounting concern about the walkways at signals.

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.00

3 members present.

 Tunbridge Wells Meeting

Sunday October 13^th 1974 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were taken as read.

Delegate to 1975 A.A.D.

It was agreed and seconded that Bro. A. Brooker Tunbridge Wells branch be nominated. Agreed unanimously.

L.D.C. Report.

The L.D.C. Secretary Bro. A. Brooker gave his report to the branch, this covered rosters for 1976, platform shelter for platform 4 & 5, carrying detonators in taxis, state of goods yard, D.E.M.U. restrictions, conditions of Oxted staff room, Edenbridge Town platform extention and October diagrams.

Any Other Business

The question of a collection for Bro. C. Smith (retired) was brought to the attention of the meeting and the branch secretary was instructed to write to Branch Secretary Bro. Ellis South Eastern District and inquire if any collection was made on his behalf when he moved from Addiscombe to Tunbridge Wells West, before any positive action is taken on this.

Mutual Aid Fund

The branch secretary informed the members present, that Bro. J. Vigar had now been off work through illness for aperiod of 13 weeks and as per Mutual Aid Fund agreement would draw £3.25 from Bristol & West Building Society for our member.

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.00

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

Sunday November 17^th 1974 at 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms, Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the branch secretary and it was moved by Bro. H. Love and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “That they were a true record.”

Matters arising

Collection for Bro. C. Smith (retired)

The Branch Secretary wrote to Bro. Friend Branch Secretary S/E District as per October meeting and a collection was made on his behalf and a cheque for £10.60 was forwarded to the Branch Secretary for Bro. Smithh. This together with £5.60 collected at Tunbridge Wells West was given to Bro. Smith at his home on the 22^nd December ’74, with a bunch of Chrysanthemum’s for his wife on his retirement.

Edenbridge Town Platform Extention

As per the discussion within the L.D.C. Report at the October meeting, on this matter the Branch Secretary has written to Head Office and is awaiting their reply.

District Council Report

Bro. A. Brooker, Branch District Council Delegate gave a full report on the meeting held on the 28^th October 1974.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report on the present position on items being attended by the L.D.C., these covered Oxted & East Grinstead staff room, state of goods yard, two days leave and changing 2 days leave 1976 roster.

L.D.C. Nominations

It was proposed and seconded  that due to there not being any official procedure for this at the branch, all future L.D.c. nominations to be taken at the October branch meeting. Agreed Unanimously.

Vacancy for 1 L.D.C. member

The following members for this vacancy

It was proposed Bro. D. Ward and seconded Bro. H. Love that Bro. B. Baldock be nominated

It was proposed by Bro. L. Whiting and seconded Bro. B. Baldock that Bro. D. Ward be nominated.

This was voted on and the results were as follows Bro. D. Ward 5 votes, Bro. B. Baldock 1 vote & 1 non vote.

Br. D. Ward was therefore nominated and voted as official candidate for this position.

Any other business

The subject of collectors for drivers telephone attendants of sick was brought to the attention of the meeting  and given a full discussion it was unanimously agreed that the branch secretary be given full authority to hold a depot collection after a man had been off 6 weeks and another after 26 weeks with a figure of 25p per head collected. In the case of retirements this be made for all to subscribe to, at the booking office.

Attention was also brought to the meeting of incidents occurring where through extra non – diagrammed shunts having to be made were causing delayed starts to booked trains, and drivers were being questioned to any late starts of their trains through this matter be left open for further discussion if it continued.

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.00 Hrs. 

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday January 19^th  1975 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. B. Baldock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger. “That they were a true record.”

The Branch Chairman on opening the meeting welcomed Bro. A. Ashdown and Bro. R. Harper as new members to the Society and Branch as from the the 23.12.74., and this welcome was expressed by all members present.

Election of Branch Officers for 1975.

It was proposed Bro. B. Baldock and seconded Bro. A. Rigby and unanimously agreed by all members present that the Branch Officers for 1975 to be the same as 1974, but with the following exception. It was moved Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. A. Rigby. “That due to Bro. D. Ward now being an official L.D.C. Representative he would need to be an official committee member and this reason, it was unanimously agreed that Bro. D. Ward take the position of Bro. P. Pepper on the Branch Committee.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary  gave his report to the branch, this covered, uniform belts & Slipover jackets, detonators in taxis, Edenbridge Town platforms and A.L. Roster 1976.

Matters arising from L.D.C. Report.

The matter of Edenbridge Town platform was given a full discussion and in the light of the L.D.c. Secretary’s report and a letter of reply of the Branch secretary’s letter of 12^th November 1974. It was agreed that the L.D.C. secretary should write to Bro. R. Dickinson, Sectional Council ‘B’  Secretary and Bro. N. Millagan Organising Secretary on this, and if no satisfactory results call a meeting for further discussion on it.

Bro. A Rigby brought to the attention of this meeting the possibility of some drivers having to work more Boxing Days than others on the new agreed system of rostering for bank holidays, this was given a full discussion and it was decided that the Boxing Day 1975 rostering should be compared with the 1974 rostering and if  there was any evidence of this the position of rostering for the 1976 and future boxing days be re examined.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 14.00 p.m.

5 members were present.

 Tunbridge Wells Meeting

 Sunday April 6^th 1975 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. B. Baldock and seconded Bro. D. Ward. “That they were a true record.”

Edenbridge Town Platform Overrunning

The L.D.C. Secretary reported on the position to date on this matter and read out letters of reply from his letters to Bro. R. Dickinson Sectional Council ‘B’ Secretary and Bro. N. Milligan Organising Secretary and in the light of the contents of these it was decided to await developments with the main object o get this item placed on an L.D.C. agenda.

Boxing Day 1976

With regard to the point raised on this by Bro. A. Rigby at the January meeting, the L.D.C. Secretary pointed out that due to the extra work coming in with the May workings, it could be impossible to work any on/off system, but as decided at that meeting the Boxing Day 1976 rostering would be kept under review.

Circulars & Correspondence

He Branch Secretary read out the contents of these received as from the last meeting and no questions were raised by the members on this.

District Council & Trades Council Report

Bro. A. Brooker the Branch delegate gave his report on the D.C.4 meeting followed by a full report on the proposed M & D Economies and questions that had been raised on housing.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report on plans in hand to present time and a full discussion was given on the accident that Bro. R. Aspey was involved in at Woldingham.

Financial Report

The Branch Secretary gave the financial report of the Branch for 1974, this gave fianaces of branch expenditure and deposits for the past year. The financial position of the Mutual Aid Fund and cash in hand at this time. These figures were accepted as a true record by all members present.

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.00 p.m.

5 members present.

 Tunbridge Wells Meeting

 Sunday July 20^th 1975 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Secretary read the minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. B. Baldock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger. “That they were a true record.”

Branch correspondence and circular as from the last meeting were read and discussed by all and from these it was moved by Bro. R. Bridger and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That Bro. B. Noakes, Brighton, be nominated from this Branch for Sectional Council “B” representative, this vote was given a unanimous vote of agreement and a unanimous vote from this Branch was given for Bro. J. Wandel, New Street  Birmingham Branch for Parliamentary Panel Candidate.

District Council

The District Council delegate gave his report on the District Council No.4 meeting at Croydon, on July 7th, followed by a Trades Council report that a special meeting had been called to distress the proposed cuts in bus services for this area.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report to the member. This included new annual leave roster and rota order and this minutes has been made agreed and posted.

The position with regards to Edenbridge Town station platform had moved favourable forward, the item had been placed on L.D.C. agenda and this matter had been discussed with management and declined by them. The L.D.C. Secretary has now forwarded the complete file to Sectional Council “B”.

Proposed new building for station, ticket office and staff. It was suggested that ground on top dock should be used for the purpose of ticket office, as proposed use of loco dock would put present staff car parking under pressure.

The subject of rest day booking was discussed at the meeting and it was decided at that the existing L.D.C. minute covers i.e. if any man agreeing to work his rest day and has not put in for it off three days prior, as per L.D.C. minutes expect to be booked to work. Required and if declining turn given, is credited has having worked.

There being no other business, the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.00

4 members were present

 Tunbridge Wells Meeting

 Sunday August 28^th 1975 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Secretary read the minutes of the last meeting and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. A. Ashdown. That they were a true record.

Matters arising 

Rest day booking, the Secretary brought to the attention of the meeting that dissatisfaction was still in existence as to rest day booking. But it was left that this had been fully discussed t the July meeting and that what had been entered on the July meeting was correct.

Branch correspondence and circulars as from the July meeting were read and discussed. But due to the exceptional amount of work at the depot for this day, attendance was small and it was decided to await the November meeting for further discussion on some items.

L.D.C. Nominations

It was again decided for the same reason to await the November meeting for these.

Any other business, the Chairman brought to the attention of the meeting that changes on values etc as from the 16th September 1973 might necessitate some slight changes to the rules of the Tunbridge Wells West Mutual Aid Fund and that any proposed alterations towards on figures would be put forward for discussion at the November meeting.

New Minute Book

The Secretary informed the meeting that the Branch Minute Book was moving towards the last remaining pages and that he had purchased a replacement at the cost of £2.05. Nut unfortunately the dye and quality was not available as in 1948, and due to this the Secretary was instructed to purchase a second replacement if one was available.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 12.30  

2 members present

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday November 23^rd  1975 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger. “That they were a true record.”

Matters arising

A unanimous vote by all members present was given for Bro. Rowe – Reading Branch for delegate to T.U.C. 1976 Conference, for Bro. R. Dickinson  - Ramsgate Branch as delegate to 1976 Labour Party conference, and Bro. W. Hutchins – Horsham Branch as delegate for Group 40 at 1976 A.A.D. conference.

Mutual aid Fund

This was deferred for further discussion at the January meeting.

L.D.C. Nominations

Vacancies for 2 L.D.C. members become available as from 1^st January 1976. But the present L.D.c. Representative Bro. F. Diplock informed the branch that he did not wish to stand agin this time.

The Branch Chairman and L.D.C. Secretary Bro. A. Brooker expressed the thanks of himself and the branch committee for all the time and work Bro. Diplock had given to the depot, especially bearing to mind the hours of work that were involved in getting an agreement with management on the May 1974 Diagram Working Dispute, and where his knowledge of these brought it to a satisfactory conclusion.

This vote of thanks and appreciation was expressed by all members present.

It was proposed Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “Bro. A. Brooker be nominated for 1 position and proposed Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock that Bro. B. Baldock be nominated for the other position. There being no other candidates it was unanimously agreed that Bros. A. Brooker and B. Baldock to nominated and elected as official L.D.C. Representatives for these two vacancies.

Correspondence

Branch Correspondence and circulars were read by the Branch Secretary and given full discussion. The Secretary brought to the attention of the meeting Circular 148/75 headed Consumption of alcohol and the importance of the contents of this circular to every driver.

District Council Report

The District Council delegate gave his report on the meetings of District Council No.4 on the 21^st October ’75 which dealt with the financial position of B.R. and the proposed cuts in services.

L.D.C. Reports

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report to the members, this included matters already in hand and concern of members to the position of safety at Hamsey Crossing. Bro. Pepper was concerned of the lack of washing facilities of Uckfield Station and this was being investigated.

Any Other Business

The financial position of British Rail both from branches and D.C.4 report was given a full discussion and a policy was adopted that a proposed scheme of Bro. F. Diplock for a reduced Sunday service that could operate at a far lower cost than the present one, and if it could be accepted might not necessitate the complete proposed closure of the Oxted to Uckfield, Tonbridge line on a Sunday, should be promoted and used in the most suitable quarters of the expense of Branch funds. This was agreed unanimously.

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday January 25^th  1976 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger. “That they were a true record.”

Matters arising from minutes

Mutual Aid fund

The rules of the Mutual Aid fund, that were moved and accepted of the Branch Meeting of September 16^th 1973, were given a full discussion, and it was agreed that due to the rise in cost’s and values, amendments to the rules had become necessary. The amendments put forward and explained by the chairman were discussed by the members and by a unanimously vote were accepted and as per rule (11) these amendments to be kept in the minute book for future reference.

It was moved Bro. R. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock that the amendments to the rules made at this meeting are to take effect as from the 25^th January 1976. this also was agreed unanimously

Proposed Rail Cuts

Bro. F. Diplock, Assistant Branch Secretary, informed the meeting that as agreed at the November meeting he had, had 16 copies of his proposed scheme printed at the cost of £19.26 and these were now being dispatched to British Rail Representaives, Sectional Council ‘B’ secretary, L.D.C. secretaries of M.P.D. Victoria M.T. and Guards. Tunbridge Wells West, Mr. S. Pollington, Uckfield Parish Council, Mrs G. Gow, Secretary Uckfield to Lewes East Sussex Travellers Association. Mr. Rose, Tunbridge Wells and District Travellers and Mr. Thorneycroft, Edenbridge Area T. Ass and Miss P. Johnson Area Secretary Transport Secretary.

He was now awaiting replies to these and would advise the Branch of development

Branch Financial Report

The Financial Report of the Branch for year ending 31^st December ’75 was given by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. Bridger and Seconded Bro. L. Stephenson. “That the report is a true recoded.”

Mutual Aid Fund Report

The financial report of the Mutual Aid Fund for the year ending 31^st December 1975 was given by the Branch Secretary and it was moved Bro. B. Baldock and seconded Bro. L. Stephenson. “That the report is a true record.” 

Election of Branch Officers for 1976.

It was proposed Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Bridger and unanimously agreed by all members present, that the Branch Officers for 1976 are to remain the same as 1975, but with the following exception, it was agreed as Bro. B. Baldock is now an official L.D.C. Representative he should take the place of Bro. K. Savage on the Committee.

Branch Officers for 1976

Chairman A. Brooker, Vice Chairman R. Bridger, Secretary W. Baldwin, Ass. Secretary F. Diplock.

Committee

B. Baldock, R. Brown, V. Rumley, A. Dougherty, A. Young & D.Ward.

Collection

The subject of collections and the wording of the Branch  Minute of the meeting of Sunday 17^th November ’74 on this matter was given a full discussion and it was unanimously agreed by all members present, that due to all-round improved sick-payments, this minute is to be cancelled and the following minute to apply as from this meeting.

All future collections to be held at Tunbridge Wells West Booking Office, if convenient to do so.

Collections are to be held when a man has been of work through illness for six complete weeks and is still of sick and another after 26 weeks with amount given to be optional.

Collection to held on the Thursday of the 4^th week, but if this is not possible it is to be held on the following Thursday that can be arranged.

Notice of all collections taking place at Booking Office i.e. Guards, Station Staff , Drivers etc to be posted on Branch Notice Board for the benefit of monthly paid drivers to subscribe to if they so wish.

In the case of retirements this also to be made at the Booking Office for all to subscribe to.

Bro. L. Stephenson bought to the attention of the meeting a point of in-fairness in the present procedure of the booking of early and late extra Sundays and where Monday morning rostered turn of duty is used as a guide to who is booked early and late on a Sunday.

It was agreed there was a point for examination and it would be discussed further at the  next Branch Meeting.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.45

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday March 28^th  1976 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Bridger and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “That they were a true record.”

Any other Business arising from the last meeting

Proposed Rail Cuts

Bro. F. Diplock gave his report on replies he had received on his reduced Sunday service which had been forwarded to various parties. All were favourable to scheme and those forwarded to British Rail representatives had been received their consideration, but due to the proposed cuts being put forward from the 20^th April to 25^th July ’76 no information on these are available at this time.

Sunday Bookings

The position of Sunday bookings was given a full and long discussion by all members present. Points raised included the right to move a man off his rostered duty on a Monday morning to accommodate an Extra Sunday duty driver.

The right to use a Rest Day worker if no A/O driver available to cover the extra Sunday duty drivers Monday roster  

If or not the present system of Sunday booking should remain or be changed

It was moved Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. D. Godden. “That the matter should be put to a vote. This was unanimously agreed and the voting was as follows

4 to remain and 4 to be changed

The Chairman pointed out to the members that a considerable amount of time had been taken in discussion on this item and as there was obviously still a great deal of uncertainty on this matter, he suggested that the Branch Secretary mark it down for further discussion at the next meeting, this was agreed by all members present.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report on matters in hand at this time, this included Edenbridge platform and payment of wages.

Any Other Business

Bro. F. Diplock brought to the attention of the meeting that at this time, no provision had been established at the depot to provide a spray of flowers as a token of respect from the members on the death of any the past or present members of the staff of Tunbridge Wells West depot.

Bro. Diplock offered to make the necessary arrangements when any such occasion arose in the future if the members wished. his offer  was appreciated and accepted be all members present and a vote of thanks was given to Bro. F. Diplock and H. Love for the arrangements they made for a spray of flowers to be sent from the depot at the death of Bro. H. Blackmore.

There being no other business the chairman bought the meeting to a close at 13.00

Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday August 4^th 1976 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. B. Baldock. “That they were a true record.”

The position of Sunday bookings was again bought to the attention of the meeting for further discussion. But due to the present proposed cut back in Sunday services, and no diagram workings yet available to know what Sunday duties would be booked to the depot as from the 4^th October ’76. The Chairman suggested that this matter should again be deferred to the next meeting for further discussion. This was agreed by the members present.

Correspondence and circulars as from the last meeting were read by trhe branch secretary and it was unanimously agreed that Bro. T.G. Thomas Llanelli be voted as delegate to the I.T.T. Congress and Bro. J. Smith Acton & North Fields be voted for the Societies Parliamentary Panel.

L.D.C. Report

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report om matters in hand. A full discussion was given on the proposed new offices and car parking, to which suggestion was made that carefull consideration be given by the L.D.c.to what is offered as alternative parking space.

Matters were still in hand with management, on ‘B; Box colour light home signal, on the overheating of D.E.M.U.’s and also that the train lights still go out when engine shut down.

Discussion was given to the cut out of telephone amendments on Sundays  22:00 to close and it was left that this move left certain points, questions note. It was moved Bro F. Diplock and seconded Bro. A. Dougherty. “That the item be put forward for L.D.C. discussion with management.” This was agreed unanimously.

The poor facilities at Oxted station for drivers to take their P.N. Breaks was given a full discussion. The L.D.C. Secretary gave details of his correspondence on this and it was agreed that the Branch Secretary should advise and if possible. Request information as to what improvements management are giving consideration to making.

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13.30. 

 Tunbridge Wells Annual General Meeting

Sunday September 19^th  1976 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The minutes of the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. T. Allen. “That they were a true record.”

The Branch Secretary gave his report on the position re Oxted P.N. Point. But no progress had been made it was agreed that the L.D.C. Secretary should write again to management on this matter.

T.U.C. Regional Council, it was proposed Bro. F. Diplock and seconded I. Breeds that Bro. Stokes, hither Green should be given consideration from the Branch for this position. This had a unanimous vote in favour of Bro. stokes.

L.D.C. Report

This report gave details of the cuts on the depot roster of Sunday duties as from 10/10/76. This matter was given a very full discussion and concern was expressed at the loss of Sunday work at Tunbridge Wells West Depot, in comparison with other depots in this area.

It was felt that this matter should be further progressed by the L.D.C. with the aim to getting additional Sunday duties on the roster.

I was proposed Bro. P. Pepper and seconded I. Breeds. “that a special branch Committee be formed to discuss any dispute which may arise on this matter, this was unanimously agreed by all present.

It was proposed that Bros L. Stephenson, I. Breeds, S. Neal, R. Bridger, M. Allen & D. Godden. That these members should form the Specail Branch Committee.

It was proposed Bro. P. Pepper and seconded I. Breeds. “That in the event of any failure of the l.D.C. to get any improvement of Sunday duties of Tunbridge Wells depot the drivers would carry out the same resolution of the Branch meeting of 28^th April 1974, in that the drivers would report for duty at 06:00 and 14:00 Hrs. as from the 4^th October ’76. this was unanimously agreed.

Any other Business

Bro. R. Plummer brought to the attention of the meeting , the dangerous state of the walkways at Tunbridge Wells from sidings of the up and down platforms ends, and beyond at Eridge, and the gas sidings walk way at Oxted station.

It was agreed by members that these did exist as dangerous situation when the drivers were required to use these points and the L.D.C. instructed to bring this matter to the attention of management.

It was understood that Bro. W. Hutchings Horsham Branch was standing for 1977 AAD representative and that in the event of voting paper being due in before the next meeting, it was unanimously agreed that Bro. W. Hutchings be voted from this branch for group H.O. representative.

Meeting closed at 13.15

 Tunbridge Wells Special General Meeting

Sunday October 3^rd 1976 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

This special to discuss the proposals and resolution of the meeting of the 19^th September ’76, with regards to the cuts in Sunday duties at Tunbridge Wells West depot.

The L.D.C. Secretary reported to the Special Branch Committee, that at a meeting with management, Sectional Council ‘B’, Redhill M.T., & Victoria m.T. L.D.C.s on Wednesday 29^th September ’76, no improvements of Sunday duties were offered to them and the position was the same as their report on the 19^th September ’76.

This matter was given a long and full discussion by all members, and unanimously agreed that the resolution of booking on at 06;00 & 14:00 Hrs. will apply on Monday 4^th October ’76, providing a guarantee of 8 Hrs pay per day was given by management and if given, it was voted 9 for and nil against continuing booking on these times indefinitely.

In the event of management refusing to pay 8hrs per day, it was voted 14 for and nil against, that as from Tuesday 5^th October ’76, men would work strictly and only to their diagram workings.

It was voted 14 for and nil against that if management offered all or any member his cards a return to normal working would apply immediately.

This position of working on Sunday 10^th October ’76 was fully discussed and in a vote taken 7 were against working 4 for working and a no to working on Sunday 10^th October ’76 was recorded at this time. But it was felt that a Special branch meeting should be called for Wednesday 6^th October ’76 to discuss developments, and this should again be discussed and finalised at that meeting.

 Tunbridge Wells Special General Meeting

Wednesday  October 6^th 1976 19.00 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

Bro. T. Allen, Chairman of the Special Branch committee opened the meeting by calling on the L.D.C. secretary Bro. A. Brooker for a report on his meeting with the A.D.M. on Tuesday 5^th October ’76. Bro. A. Brooker informed the members that he had been advised by the A.D.M. that there would be no more Sunday duties for Tunbridge Wells depot because of this dispute and any continuation of such action could lead to a further reduction of the Oxted line services.

The Branch Secretary informed the members that to date, he had received no reply or even acknowledgement to his letter of the 29^th September to Head office, so could not say if any assistance would be given on this matter.

Bro. Allen questioned as to what contact the Organising Secretary had made with the Branch Officials, and again the Branch Secretary had to point out, that as with Head Office, there had been nothing from him either.

The situation was discussed by the members present and it was agreed that combining the facts of a complete silence from Head office together with the positive action being taken by management over this dispute, careful consideration should be given to the advantages and disadvantages of any further action taken, many points for and against were put forward, but reluctantly, because of Head office silence, and the uncertainty if any assistance in this dispute would be given, it was felt that in the light of managements attitude to any alleviation of the unfair number of loss Sunday duties sufferd by this depot, and the members re-action to that loss, having been made very clear to the management by industrial action could lead to further reduction of the Oxted road services, all such action shall cease as from the completion of this days latest duty.

It was voted 12 for and 1 against and 2 abstained. That as from Thursday 7^th October ’76 normal diagram working will be strictly adhered to.

It was voted 11 for, 1 against and 3 abstained. That L.D.C. minutes in respect of rest day working will apply and a unanimous vote was given to accept the present number of Sunday duties.

It was proposed and seconded that Bro. F. Diplock be thanked for his knowledge and help given with the diagram workings in this dispute, and a unanimous vote of thanks was expressed by all members.

It was proposed and seconded. “that the branch Secretary be instructed to write to the General Secretary expressing their utter disgust of the full membership of the Tunbridge Wells Branch, at no reply to their correspondence , or assistance in this matter. A unanimous vote was given to this proposal and the Branch Secretary instructed to make it clear, as to the bitter feeling over this matter of all 38 drivers at the depot, and that the letter be sent recorded delivery.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday December 5^th 1976 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Chairman/L.D.C. Secretary, the Branch Secretary and the remaining L.D.C. representatives attended this meeting call. All other members failed to attend and the meeting was unable to be held.

Tunbridge Wells Branch A.G.M. Meeting

Sunday January 16^th    1977 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Chairman opened the meeting, by extending a warm welcome to Bro N. Milligan, organising Secretary, who had come to discuss the possibility of members being unavailable to form a branch at Tunbridge Wells for 1977.

The Branch secretary read the minutes of the last meeting of the 19^th September ’76, and it was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded Bro. R. Harper. “That they were a true record.”

The minutes of the 2 Special Branch Meetings of the 3^rd and 6^th October ’76 were then read by the Branch Secretary and it was moved Bro. A. young and seconded Bro. B. Baldock, and moved by Bro. T. Allen and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. “That the minutes of these two special branch meeting were a true record.”

Matters arising from the three meetings.

The branch secretary read the correspondence and replies to and from all concern on what had taken place over the dispute between management and the branch on the loss of excessive Sunday duties at the depot.

This was given a very full discussion by the members, many questions were asked on the subject, and request for the up to date position were asked for by the members.

The Branch Chairman and Secretary gave their report on this but were unable to answer off questions due to there being no other replies, or very limited information in the replies that were received from Head Office and that perhaps the Organising Secretary could answer these on completion of Branch business.

Correspondence

Correspondence and circulars as from the last meeting were read by the Branch Secretary and discussed by the members present.

The voting paper for 1 delegate to the Trades Union Congress ’77 was read through. But as the branch had received no information on the candidates standing for this position, it was felt by the members that a vote could not be given on this item.

All other items were accepted and placed in the Branch file.

L.D.C. Nominations

Due to there being insufficient members at he December meeting for a meeting to be held, nominations for the vacant L.D.C. position could not be called for prior to the 1^st January ’77, but request for nominations for this still vacant position were then asked for.

It was proposed Bro. P. Musselwhite and seconded Bro. B. Baldock that Bro. A. young be nominated for this position and there being no other persons nominated, Bro. A. young accepted to stand for this and was given a unanimous vote by all members present to be the official L.D.C. representative to take up this vacant position.

The Branch Chairman, Bro. A. Brooker asked Bro. Milligan if he would accept an invitation from the branch to give his points of view on the issues raised throughout the meeting and answer if possible questions from the members.

Bro. Milligan accepted this invitation and informed the meating that he was pleased to visit Tunbridge Wells Branch and thanked the members for there welcome, especially as the circumstance of his visit related to the future existence of the branch.

Bro. Milligan opened by apologising to the members at being thrown in at the deep end at this meeting. He informed them that he had come to discuss the unavailability of members to form a branch for 1977, and he had no knowledge of the dispute which had led up to the possibility of this. He assured them that he had not been advised of or requested by Head office to look into this dispute and therefore was not in a position to answer questions as to what had taken place.

He explained what would happen if the members failed to elect Branch Officers to keep the Branch open, and how difficult it would be to re-open a Branch once it closed.

He requested the members to adjourn rather than close this meeting so to allow him to make notes of the Branch Secretary’s correspondence so that he could take the matter up direct with the General Secretary as to what had gone wrong at Head Office and he, himself would arrange to discuss the matter with Sectional Council ‘B’, with the view of the Branch being advised on both accounts of the position, which he helped would lead to fresh consideration being given to forming a branch at Tunbridge Wells for 1977.

This request was unanimously accepted and the meeting was adjourned at 13.20.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch the Adjourned A.G.M. Meeting

Sunday March 20^th 1977 10.30 p.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman welcomed to Bro N. Milligan, organising Secretary, on his return visit to the Branch to give his assistance (if required) to elect members form a branch for 1977

The Branch secretary read the minutes of the last meeting of the adjourned meeting  of 16^th January ’77, together with letters received from the General secretary and Organising Secretary in reply to his assistance that the matters that had led to the possible unavailability of members to form a branch for 1977 would be throughly looked into by both himself and General Secretary with a full explanatory sent to the branch.

The contents of these letters was given a very full discussion by the members and Mr. Milligan was asked if there was anything he could add to these replies. He explained there was nothing further he could say, and give fresh consideration at this meeting, to forming a Branch for 1977.

Further discussion was given to this and it was unanimously agreed that in the light of the assurances within the General Secretary’s letter, the Branch accepted the explanation given.

Correspondence

Circulars and correspondence was read by the Branch Secretary and from this a unanimously vote was given to the Eastleigh delegate for the labour Party Conference 1977, all other correspondence was accepted and put on Branch file.

Branch officers

The Chairman informed the members that with the acceptance of Head office explanation the next business of the meeting would be the election of the Branch officers of 1977 and called for nominations for these positions.

 L.D.C. Report 

The L.D.C. secretary, Bro. A. Brooker gave his report on matters that were being progressed by the L.D.C. at this time and brought to the attention of the members 2 items which required discussion at this meeting. 

(1) Extra Sunday Booking

Due to the loss of Sunday duties at the depot the position of booking men strikly down the line of men due to work an extra Sunday duty (as per the L.D.C. minute) had become impossible to work and this had to be brought to the attention of the members for discussion.

It was agreed by the members that for a man to work a late extra Sunday duty without a clear 12 hours off before the commencement of his Monday duty could only be achieved by allowing the list clerk the right to move a man forward of his late early turn to accommodate the extra Sunday duty driver.

This was given a full discussion, and agreed that to allow this would take away the right of any driver to be able to make prior arrangements within his social life on what is his rostered booking on time of duty.

It was unanimously agreed that the L.D.C. minute should stay as it is (i.e.) with the names of the men due to work written in order from the top to the bottom of the list put out each Tuesday. But that men cannot be regarded as available for an extra Sunday duty, if there is not 12 hours between their Monday booking on time and the available Sunday duties booking off time.

(2) Rest day booking of men having agreed to work rest days if required.

It had been brought to the attention of the L.D.C. Secretary that the L.D.C. minute of giving 3 days notice to be booked of an a rest Day with it never being credited to the man wether he was due to work or not, had resulted at the end of this summer period, with there being an uneven balance on the Rest Day records chart and requests had been made that the rest days booking be carried out the same as extra Sunday booking.

This was given a full discussion and it was proposed Bro. L. Stephenson and seconded Bro. A. Goodwin. “That the rest day booking should remain  as the L.D.C. stands.” This motion was voted on and defeated 5 to 3.

It was proposed Bro. D Godden and Seconded Bro. P. Musselwhite. “That if a man failed to give 3 hours notice of his unavailability to work his rest days and refusing or declined to work a turn booked to turn he is marked off O/AC on the rest day chart.

If a man puts in 3 days prior to his rest day information the list clerk off unavailabilty to work his rest day, only if he would have worked is he credited own account.

This proposal was voted on and given a unanimous vote in favour of this system of booking to apply.

There being no other business the chairman brought the meeting to a close at 14.00 hrs.

  Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday May 1^st 1977 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Secretary read the minutes of the meetings of the 16^th January and the 20^th March 1977. These being the Branch A.G.M. adjourned and the Branch A.G.M. continued. After an amendment by the Chairman it was moved F. Diplock and seconded A. Young that they were a true record.

Correspondence and circulars received since the last meeting were read out and items were discussed.

The Tunbridge Wells branch nomination of a candidate for Sectional council ‘B’ for 1978. A letter from Bro. W. Eames was read out in connection with this election and after some discussion and some reservations voiced, it was moved W. Baldwin and seconded F. Diplock. “That Bro. W. Eames be Tunbridge Wells Branch nomination.” This was agreed upon.

The question of a statement made by Bro. N. Milligan about presentation pen sets which the secretary said was being processed.

The question of a collection for Dougherty who it was thought had been off sick six weeks before resuming duty. The Secretary promised to investigate this matter. This being in line with the discussion made at the Branch meeting Sunday 17^th November 1974.

A request by the L.D.C. Secretary that the Branch Secretary contact Head Quarters requesting that an official L.D.C. stamp be made available if possible for the use of the Tunbridge Wells L.D.C. The Secretary said that a request had been made and he was awaiting a reply.

On completion of the Branch Secretary’s report, the Branch Chairman expressed his wish that a sincere vote of thanks be given to the outgoing Branch Secretary W. Baldwin for the work which he has done for the branch over the past five years. This was echoed by all members present.

A vote of thanks was given by members present to F. Diplock for his time and trouble spent in preparing the roster cards. This vote being proposed W. Baldwin and seconded A. Brooker.

The Chairman reported to the Branch that discussion had taken place with the Branch Secretary on the question of the changeover of authority in respect of the Mutual Aid Fund and the Branch Banking. Also on the financial status of both accounts. He stated that the changeover authority between the outgoing Branch Secretary and incoming one was nearing completion and a financial report was expected at the next meeting.

The L.D.C. Secretary made his report on the meeting of 24^th April with management. Minute L574 scrutinising of diagrams was agreed. L.D.C. minute 7 revised rest day rostering agreed, Storage of mopeds deferred, Car parking deferred.

Management stated that after discussion a new set of minutes would be drawn up and would be made available in the near future.

The L.D.C. Secretary reported that a meeting with management was being held on 2^nd May and a report on this meeting would be made at the next branch meeting.

The L.D.C. Secretary was ask to investigate the booking of men who request a change the of roster for domestic reasons and grounds are considered to be in this catergory  where the Secretary replied that this would be looked into.

One item of business was entered into correspondence for the next meeting to be held. This being new proposals were put forward by T. Allen for discussion on branch procedure. But due to the lack of time at this meeting it was decided to hold this item over until the next meeting.

The Chairman brought the meeting to close at 13:10

Five members present.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday July 10^th 1977 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Secretary read the minutes of the meeting of the 1^st May ’77 and it was moved W. Baldwin and seconded A .Young “That they wee a true record.”

Correspondence and Circulars received since the last meeting were read out and included the following. 

Letters from W. Eames and J. Richardson in conection with the Sectional Council ‘B’ elections. It was decided after a vote that W. Eames would be given Tunbridge Wells vote when the voting papers were sent and the Branch Secretary was given full authority to complete the voting paper and return it.

The Secretary reported that the nomination paper had been sent and received by Head office. The vote for W. Eames was proposed W. Baldwin

Items arising from the last meeting were reported on by the Secretary and were

A reply from Head Office re the supply of an L.D.C. rubber stamp which they said would not be complied with.

Presentation pen sets, a pen set had been sent for the Branch Chairman, and members said it was well deserved for the service he had given.

A question of a collection for A Dougherty thought to have been off sick for six weeks. The Secretary reported that this was looked into and was not in fact correct, he had only been sick for four weeks.

The Secretary was asked if the Branch funds had been sent to our Branch and he replied that they had not and he would contact Head Office.

The Chairman reported the changeover of authority from previous Branch Secretary to the present one in respect of the Branch banking and Mutual Aid Fund had been completed and statements from both accounts had been received.

The L.D.C. Secretary made his report on his attendance at District Council 4 meeting and on the following items

An L.D.C. stamp had been obtained and was now in use together with new locker keys

The refuelling apron T.W.W., the Secretary reported this item still being processed.

Annual Leave roster now posted and annual leave vacant date applications received and accepted.

A circular containing an item on double time being paid for working Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Payment of wages, a meeting had been held over the payment of some wages from the loco by telephone attendants with the result that the telephone attendants were not in agreement with paying out wages and a further meeting was being held on Thursday 14^th July ’77

A report by A. Ashdown on incorrect booking was being pursued by the Secretary and a letter sent to Head Office in connection with this. The secretary reported that he was awaiting a reply to this letter.

The L.D.C. Secretary was asked to look into the matter of new chairs for the drivers room TWW Loco. The Secretary said this would be looked into.

Items on Branch procedure were discussed and were deferred for further discussion.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13:55

5 members were present

 Tunbridge Wells Special Branch Meeting

Sunday August 14^th 1977 10.45 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman opened the meeting by stating that this meeting had been called to welcome Sectional Council member Bill Eames to give a report on the events surrounding the closure of the Eridge – Oxted line on Sundays. For the purpose of this meeting all normal branch business was suspended.

Bill Eames thanked the Chairman for the welcome and set out to give a full and graphic report on the events leading up to the threat of massive cuts in service and the result of intense pressure put on the B.R.B. to revise the list of cuts by seeing that money could be saved by cutting out non essentials and waste. He went on to describe the events leading up to and since the closure of the Eridge – Oxted Sundays and the future attempts that would be made to reinstate same.

Questions were asked after Bill Eames had finished his report on the possible reopening of High Brooms station on Sundays. The recent introduction of the half hourly Charing Cross – Hastings service causing delays to our Tonbridge - Eridge services and the decline in general of railways in the Tunbridge Wells area.

Bill Eames noted the questions and points put forward and hoped in conjunction with the L.D.C. would resolve some of the issues.

The Chairman having had to a leave a little earlier passed the Chair to the Branch Secretary who at 13:00 brought the meeting to a close with thanks to Bill Eames and Branch member for their attendance

5 members were present.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday September 18^th 1977 10.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Secretary read the minutes of the last meeting held on the 10^th July ’77 and it was moved B. Baldock and seconded W. Baldwin that they were a true record.

The Branch Secretary then read the minutes of the special meeting held on the 14^th August ’77 and it was moved W. Baldwin and seconded B. Baldock that they were a true record.

Correspondence since the last meeting was read out and included

A voting  paper for the TUC regional council 1978/81 and it was proposed A. Brooker and seconded B. Baldock that W. Huchings be given the Tunbridge Wells vote as he then was.

One item arising from the last meeting was the Branch Funds which the Secretary reported had been received and deposited in the branch bank account.

The Branch Secretary then reported on an item on presentation. Since the presentation of a pen and pencil by A.S.L.E.F. Head office to the Tunbridge Wells Branch Chairman. Consideration was given to presentation to other branch officers, in view of the fact that A.S.L.E.F. Head Office did not make a presentation to Branch Secretaries until twenty years in office and no presentation was made to L.D.C. Representatives at all. It was considered that a token of appreciation to Branch officers K. Savage, W. Baldwin, A. Ashdown & F. Diplock in the shape of presentation pens should be made with grateful thanks for their efforts on behalf of the members of this branch.

The Branch Chairman wished to endorsed the action of the Secretary in this matter and said he had worked with these members in their various capacities and knew the time and effort that they had put in over the years. He thanked them both personally and behalf of the branch.

The L.D.C. Secretary made his report on the question of Sunday booking and the proposal for the future was that as from October ’77 that all Sundays be recorded to eliminate any unfairness due to the losses of Sundays during annual leave. Other items on the recording of Sundays in other circumstances was discussed at this time. After which it was moved B. Baldock and seconded R. Sulivan. “That all Sundays be recorded.”

An amendment to the minute regarding the parking of cycles and mopeds was discussed and it was agreed that the management be informed that their proposal on this issue was acceptable to the members.

The secretary reported on alterations to the new roster for October ’77, the delivery of new chairs for the drivers room Tunbridge Wells loco and items in connection with the 1978 timetable.

The L.D.C. Secretary was question on the alterations for the weekend workings for 17^th October and after discussion among members it was moved W. Baldwin and seconded R. Sulivan. 

“That the L.D.C. was out of order in assisting management with the revised workings issued on Friday 16^th September, as it is not part of the provision of minute L574, that they do the work of diagrammers or rosters, only scrutinise it.” 

This motion was carried three vote for none against.

A motion was put by R. Sulivan requesting that the branch call for the resignation of B. Baldock from the L.D.C. in view of recent events surrounding him, was withdrawn after B. Baldock said that he would not stand for the L.D.C. at the end of his term.

It was proposed M. Allen and seconded W. Baldwin. “That the L.D.C. be supplied with all new issues of the National Conditions of Service book paid for with branch funds as they are no longer supplied to L.D.C.s by ASLEF Head Office.

There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 13:20

5 members were present.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday December 4^th 1977 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch Secretary read the minutes of the meeting of the 18^th September and it was moved F. Diplock and seconded W. Baldwin. That they were a true record.

Correspondence since the last meeting was read but and included a letter from Bill Eames S.C. ‘B’ requesting the Branch consider holding a collection to be presented to H. Bagilhole on his retirement from S.C. ‘B’. Consideration was given and it was decided that the Branch Secretary take up a collection among the members of the branch. This collection to be supported by branch funds as necessary.

A collection for V. Rumley and Mutual Aid payment to him of £17.17 and £3.60 respectively .

J. Vigar petrol allowance still being dealt with at this time.

Letters from K. Savage and A. Ashdown expressing thanks for the presentation pen, a letter from Redhill Branch Secretary re closed line Hurst Green Junction to Birchden Junction Sundays, which members of the Branch said should be replied to by the Secretary.

The Health and Safety officer nomination paper had been forwarded to Head Office for their attention.

An application form for Society National School was presented to the Branch and it was moved A. Brooker and seconded w. Balwin. “That M. Allen should be this branch’s nomination.”

After the branch Secretary’s report W. Baldwin and F. Diplock wish to add their thanks to those of A. Ashdown and K. Savage for the presentation pens.

The L.D.C. Secretary made his report on District council 4 meeting of 31^st October ’77. 

Meetings with management on STOPS, 1978 timetable, amendments to L.D.C. minutes 2 Sunday booking, 14 parking of  mopeds.

The Secretary reported that meetings would be held on 12^th December, 14^th December and 19^th December in connection with L.D.C. minutes. Christmas holiday period ’77, payment of wages T.W.W.

The L.D.C. Secretary was asked to purse the matter of uneven surface of platforms as they were becoming a danger.

Lighting in the loco shed for the parking of mopeds and perhaps the filling of the pit adjacent to No.4 road. The Secretary said these matters would be looked into.

After the L.D.C. Secretary report the Chairman asked for nomination for the 2 L.D.C.  position as the two L.D.C.  members had reached the nend of term who were in office at this time.

It was proposed F. Diplock and seconded W. Baldwin. “That A. Brooker be nominated for one position

It was proposed  A. Brooker and seconded F. Diplock that W. Baldwin be nominated for the other position.

The two nominees accepted.

Consideration was given to the candidates for the 1978 A.A.D. and a vote taken with the result that P. Plaine of Brighton would be given our vote 4 for and 1 against.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 12:45

4 members were present.

  Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday February 12^th 1978 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Branch secretary read the minutes of the meeting held on 4^th December ’77 and it was moved F. Diplock and seconded W. Baldwin that they were a true record.

Correspondence since the last meeting was read out and included the following.

The collection for S.C. ‘B’ Chairman H. Bagilhole which amount to £5.10 which had been forwarded to B. Eames and a letter from the Branch to R. Lifford had been sent.

A letter from Head Office cancelling the T.U.C. Course which A. Brooker was to attend.

A circular naming the students to attend the Society National  School at Dorking on February 19^th to 24^th , which included this branch’s nomination M. Allen.

Statement of the account from the Bristol & West Building Society in connection with Mutual Aid Fund

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report on the following items.

Letters had been sent and development awaited on

The modification to Unit 1310, the position with regard to Forge Farm Crossing new barrier and operation by trains of tredal devices.

The amendment to the speed restriction 40 m.p.h. over the section between Birchend down distant and 50 m.p.h. restriction over curves at Birchend down home signal.

The question of drivers acting as guards to eleviate mass disruption to train service on 1^st February.

As Required booking of drivers when a full weeks work is not available.

Questions were asked on the subject of booking of drivers who are As Required and after discussion the L.D.C. Secretary said that further correspondence would take place on this issue and the item may have to be listed for an L.d.C. meeting.

Questions were also asked on the mutual changing of turns between drivers and the subsequent application for comp leave by one of the parties. A full discussion took place on this with the result:- It was proposed L. Stevenson and seconded B. Baldock. “That this branch instruct the L.D.C. to seek to obtain an agreement with management that when two drivers change turns for a given period, then one driver goes sick or has a comp day or own account day during the period then the other reverts to his rostered turn.” This was unanimously agreed by all members present.

Questions were asked on the booking older of  drivers on bank holidays which the L.D.C. Secretary said were as fair as could be possible.

The L.D.C. Secretary report on meetings in connection with the proposed re-opening of the Oxted branch Sundays, and the May 1978 timetable.

A letter from K. Savage in conjunction with booking of Sundays and the L.D.C. letter of reply sent to him.

After the L.D.C. report the L.D.C. were asked to look into the P.N. point facilities at New Cross Gate, and the position surrounding the formation of the 16:11 empties New Cross Gate to London Bridge and the 16:40 London Bridge to Uckfield being increased from time to time from six cars to nine cars. The L.D.C. Secretary said that these would be looked into.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting  to a close at 13:53.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday April 30^th 1978 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman asked the members present to stand in silence as a mark of respect in memory of the late K. Savage.

The Chairman reported on the death of Ken Savage after a short illness and apart from the loss to his wife and family and to the members as a whole. It should be recorded that Ken’s death was a loss to the tradition of Trades Union and the promotion of working class people as he was always prepared to put a point view forward.

The Chairman reported the cancellation of the minute applying to the calling of meetings every two months on the third Sunday in the case of this meeting as circumstances had cause the cancellation of meetings which had been called on 2^nd, 9^th, 16^th April.

Minutes of the meeting of 12^th February were read out by the secretary and it was moved B. Baldock and seconded F. Diplock that they were a true record.

Circulars were presented and there were no matters arising.

A letter from Harold Bagilhole thanking the branch for the donation on his retirement. A letter from Bill Eames thanking the branch for their donation to the retirement fund for Harold Bagilhole.

Correspondence on the Political Fund exemption of P. Pepper, on the transfer of C. Exley from Neville Hill, Leeds to Tunbridge Wells, and the transfer of J. Vigar to Three Bridges from Tunbridge Wells.

A letter sent to Head Office in respect of the death of K. Savage and the secretary reported that suitable article would be to the Locomotive Journal.  A statement of the Branch funds in the National Westminster Bank.

Correspondence on the new service on the Oxted line Sundays and the engineers work which will affect the service.

The latest figures for the collection for K. Savage

Arising from the Branch Secretary’s report it was moved A. Brooker and seconded B. Baldock. 

“That an additional clause be added to rule 5 of the Mutual Aid Fund. Should any member die service the maximum payment be made as from death benefit and further that this shall take effect from 1^st April 1978.”

It was moved A. Bridger and seconded B. Baldock. 

“That the members of this branch wish to express their sincere thanks to those who helped to take up the collection for the late K. Savage and the secretary to write to those concerned.”

It was moved A. Brooker and seconded M. Allen. 

“That this branch wish to thank sincerely  all those contributed to the collection for the late K. Savage and report that the sum of £10.00 was set aside for a floral tribute and the rest would be given to Mrs. Savage with a list of contributors.”

The Branch Secretary reported on his attendance at the Society’s National School at Dorking and submitted his report.

The L.D.C. secretary submitted his report on his attendance at District council and pointed out an item on allowances for P.C., T.C. and other items. Discussion took place and members present felt that laid down timings for such work would serve no useful purpose and more information should be gained on this.

The Secretary reported on letters in connection with modification to Unit 1310, Forge Farm Crossing, speed restriction at the sight of the old Ashurst Junction, stock working on the 16:40 London Bridge – Uckfield service, annual leave for the new members of the branch and annual leave payments for A. Brooker and R. Brown.

The new pension scheme and its effect on drivers paying back and on pensions earning related.

The secretary reported on the agreements reached in connection with the booking of Holiday & Sickness Relief men and the changing over of duties of drivers.

The question of shed lighting where mopeds are parked and the sink in the drivers lobby T.W.W. were raised and the Secretary reported that these items were being processed.

There being no other business the Chairman brought the meeting to a close at 13:55

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday June 18^th 1978 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Secretary read the minutes of the meeting held on the 30^th April 1978 ant it was moved F. Diplock and seconded W. Baldwin. "That the minutes are a true record.”

Matters arising from the minutes of the last meeting were 

Reply had been received from the General secretary to the letter re the death of Ken Savage, the article submitted to the Locomotive Journal had been published, the collection for the late Ken Savage had been completed and amounted to £125.10 of which £10.23 had been allocated for a floral tribute and the balance £114.85 had been given to Mrs Savage together with a list of contributors.

In line with the decision to amend rules of the Mutual Aid Fund, the new clause had been added to the rules of the fund. In line with the rules of the Mutual Aid Fund the maximum payment as death benefit had been withdrawn from the Bristol and West Building Society and the amount of £7.20 paid to Mrs. Savage.

The position regards annual leave premiums for A. Brooker and R. Brown had received attention and the original mistake in the payment had been corrected.

The position with regard to the lighting in the loco shed No.4 road had been processed and the go ahead has been given and the work would commence in the future.

The position regards a new sink unit was being looked at in connection with the redecorating of the drivers room and developments awaited.

In line with the decision of the branch, letters had been sent and posted the collectors and contributors for the fund for the late K. Savage.

A letter had been sent to Head Office in response to their request for information on increased productivity and responsibility and their acknowledgement had been received.

A letter had been sent to Head Office requesting information as to why S.E.S. had not been paid to drivers for Sunday 23^rd April.

A letter had been received from P. Plaine A.A.D. delegate for this area, giving the conference decision on all the items at this years A.A.D. a reply thanking him for the information had been sent.

A nomination form had been received for a vacancy for Sectional council ‘B’ (Central Division). It was moved F. Diplock and seconded A. brooker. That this branch nominate B. Noakes, Brighton No.2  for Sectional Council. Carried unan.

Arising from any other branch business the Secretary reported that the branch minute book was now full and it was moved M. Allen and seconded W. Baldwin. 

“That the Chairman enters a suitable postscript to the minute book which spanned some 30 years.”

In light of the fact that it had been learnt that F. Fahey had passed away, it was moved M. allen and second W. Baldwin. 

“That the Secretary write to Mrs Fahey recording our deepest sympathy on the death of her husband. Carried unan.

The L.D.C. secretary reported on the following items

The position as regards the staff room at Eridge being opened on Sundays, the advertising of Sunday trains at London Bridge wrongly and the action taken.

The hot weather patrol now being used by the P&W department 

Correspondence in connection with the booking of spare men at Tunbridge Wells on Saturday late turn.

The new cattle grid installed at Uckfield and the position of drivers in relation to this. 

The latest position on annual leave premiums.

Arising from any other L.D.C. business was 

In light of the new proposals for the station building at Tunbridge Wells and the possible effect on the car parking the L.D.C. keep a careful check on any developments 

In view of the alteration to the diagram of 11:47 326 duty, the L.D.C. keep a check on this type of alteration.

A suggested new way of booking drivers on bank holidays was put forward. Drivers on bank holidays was put forward by L. Stephenson and after discussion it was moved W. Baldwin and seconded M. Allen. 

“That the proposed new way of bank booking holidays be posted together with a sample of the old way of booking and a letter explaining all relevant details connected with this.” Carried unan.

The chairman reported the in line with the A.A.D. decision with regard to branch standing orders the following procedure would be adopted.

A list of possible standing orders would compiled. 

The committee would be called together to discuss the proposed standing orders and make their recommendations.

The standing orders will be presented to the branch for their discussion.

The chairman declared that there being no other business the meeting be closed at 13:45.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

   Sunday September 10^th 1978 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Secretary read the minutes of the meeting held on 18^th June 1978 and it was moved F. Diplock and seconded W. Baldwin. That the minutes are a true record.

Matters arising from the last meeting was, the item on the suggested new way of booking drivers on Bank holidays, it was moved F. Diplock and seconded D. Ward. That in view of ASLEF Circular 156/1978 and its contents claim by the ASLEF for additional Bank Public Holidays, and the effect the outcome of negotiation on this might have on the present system or on any new system, of booking drivers on Bank Holiday, this item lie until call for. Carried Unan.

Circulars received since the last meeting which had been posted in the driver’s lobby were presented. It was moved F. Diplock and seconded W. Baldwin. That the circulars received since the last meeting be taken as read and contents noted.

Correspondence dealt with since the last meeting included, nominations form for A.A.D. Representative 1979. it was moved Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded Bro. M. Allen. That the contents be noted and developments awaited.

A voting paper for Sectional Council ‘B’ S.R. which had not been acted on du to a meeting arranged after the Branch Secretary’s holiday being too late for a vote to be cast.

The letter sent to Mrs Fahey was read out and a copy sent in line with Branch decision of the meeting held on 18.6.78.

Branch Funds 1978

Statement of account National Westminster Bank £19.54

Branch funds 1978 £13. 6

Bristol & West Mutual Aid Fund interest on account 30.6.78 £1.33

Bristol & West account £53.42

Trades Council fees £2.95

It was moved by Bro. A. Young and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. That the items contained in the Secretary’s report and his action taken noted. Carried Unan.

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report on the following various items, opertaining to the booking of drivers in connection with weekend work had be passed to the Secretary and points contained therein were dealt with and answered by him.

With regard to Sunday working in Oct. 1978, a report on the latest position was given.

The weekend roster and work content was reported on and the roster accepted.

The Chairman declared that there being no other business, the meeting closed at 13.40.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday November 12^th 1978 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Secretary read the minutes of the meeting held on 10^th September 1978 and it was moved A. Young and seconded L. Stephenson. That the minutes are a true record.

Matters arising from the last meeting.

The question of booking of drivers on Sunday in relation to 317 & 318 duties. The  effect on extra Sunday booking and the further action contemplated by the L.D.C. in view of the discussion be suspended and further developments awaited and until then this item lay in the table. Carried Unan.

The Chairman reported that Ken Passmore of St. Leonards dept. had had a heart attack and died. Because of the fact that he been a member of this Branch in the past, he asked member to stand in silence as a tribute to departed colleague.

Correspondence dealt with since the last meeting were

Moved Bro. A. Uoung and seconded Bro. L. Stephenson. That this branch nominate Bro. D. Fullick for re-election as E.C. representative for group 40.

The Chairman gave his report on his attendance at District Council which included.

Hastings electrification, Oxted services Sundays.

The L.D.C. Secretay gave his report on F. Fahey’s pension details, A. Ashdown signing of unclaimed wages, P. Mussel-White change of two days annual leave, A. Ashdown claim for domestic leave.

Discussion took place on an item raised by Bro. M. Allen on the accommodating of drivers on other than rostered turns by the list clerk, no formula was reached as the Secretary saw no way to challenge this practice.

The Chairman advised the meeting that there would be two vacancies for the L.D.C. dealt with at this meeting as Bro. A. Young had reached the end of his term and Bro. F. Diplock who had covered the other one was retiring from dealing with diagrams full time.

The Chairman called for nominations

It was moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. That Bro. M. Allen be nominated as on of the Branch’s official ASLEF Candidates.

It was moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded Bro. M. Allen. That Bro. A. Young be nominated as on of the Branch’s official ASLEF Candidates.

It was moved by Bro. L. Stephenson and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That Bro. D. Ward be nominated as one of the Branch’s official ASLEF Candidates

There being three nominations the Chairman informed the meeting there would be an election. A vote was called for by a show of hands and was as follows.

Bro. D. Ward 2, Bro. A. Young 2, & Bro. M. Allen 4

The Chairman informed the meeting that the position was that Bro. M. Allen receiving  a majority vote would be deemed elected at this purpose of a second vote as there was a tie for the other position.

A second vote was called for by the Chairman and was as follows

Bro. D. Ward 2 & Bro. A. Young 2.

The Chairman informed the meeting there was still a tie, after discussion it was moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded. That the second vote be taken again. Carried unan.

The second was taken again and was as follows

Bro. D. Ward 1, Bro. A. Young 3.

The Chairman informed the meeting that the voting was now conclusive,

Bro. D. Ward 1, Bro. A. Young 3, & Bro. M. Allen 4, and Bro. M. Allen and A. Young would be this branch’s official candidates for the two L.D.C. positions

It was moved by Bro. A. Brooker and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. That Bro. F. diplock be elected scrutineer. Carruied Unan.

It was moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. A. Brooker. That a sincre vote of thanks be given to Bro. Fred Diplock for the sterling service to this branch through the L.D.C. , diagrams and his concern for his fellow drivers, and the travelling public for who he worked so hard for so long. Carried Unan

The Chairman declared that there being no other business, the meeting be closed at 13.30

Addition

It was moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That Bro. P. Plaine receive this branch’s vote for 1979 A.A.D. Carried.

 Tunbridge Wells Special Branch Meeting

   Sunday November 26^th 1978 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman declared this a special meeting to discuss RSNT Decisions 60 & 61 and unofficial actions by some drivers. The Chairman gave an up to date run down on R.S.N.T. Decision 60 & 61 and the latest position as far as the E. C. were concerned. He reported that an emergency meeting had been called of  District Council no.4 at Arkwright Road in connection with the decision as of that the E.C. were meeting management on the same subject. Dates being 27^th November and 28 November respectively.

The meeting then went to be along discussion and many points were covered. It was moved by Bro. C. Exley and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That on giving the latest position in connection with R.S.N.T. Decisions 60 & 61, full consideration at a special meeting of this branch and in light of E.C. Minute 2369. this branch reaffirms its decision of 12^th November, 1978 minute 17/78. Carried Unan.

It was moved moved by Bro. A. Ashdown and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That this branch will support any action decided on a Regional basis at the Special meeting of District Council to be held on Monday 27^th November, 1978. Carried Unan

It was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. A. young. That following any Southern Region decision, the E. C. decision will prevail. Carried Unan.

There being no other business the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 13.00

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Annual Meeting

   Sunday January 19^th 1979 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Secretary read the minutes of the special meeting held on 26^th November 1978 and it was moved F. Diplock and seconded C. Exley. That the minutes are a true record.

The Secretary read the minutes of the meeting held on 12^th November 1978 and an amendment to minute 20e/78, line 3 delete eliminated insert deemed elected (A. Brooker), it was moved W. Baldwin and seconded F. Diplock. That the minutes are a true record.

Matters arising

The question of drivers being accommodated on other than their rostered turns for no reason, was raised but the Chairman ruled that the item should not come onto the branch floor until further discussion by the L.D.C.

Correspondence dealt with since the last meeting was

A letter had beenrecieved from the Branch Secretary, St leonards, thanking members of this branch for the collection taken up for the late Bro. K. Passmore, amount collected £11.00

An educational circular for L.D.C. Representatives had been received and the L.D.C. had nominated Bro. M. allen and Bro. A. Young to attend the course. Further to this a letter had been recievd acknowledging the nominations and advising that the nominated will be placed on the first available course.

A circular requesting nominations for the A.S.L.E.F. Society National Schools 1979, had been received and it was moved by Bro W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. L. Stephenson. That this branch nominate Bro. C. Exley to attend the Society National Schools 1979. Carried Unan.

A reply to the branch letter of 19^th November 1979 ref. RSNT 60, had been received from Head Office, ASLEF noted the contents and placing our letter before the E.C.

A letter from this branch had been sent to Head Office in line with the decision of the special branch meeting of 26^th November 1978, reaffirming the decision rejection of the RSNT decision 60. further to this a letter from Head Office A.S.L.E.F. had been received acknowledging our letter noting the contents and placing the letter before the E.C. It was moved by Bro. L. Stephenson and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That the Branch Secretary’s report be noted.

The Branch secretary put forward thebranch accounts for the year 1978.

Tunbridge Wells Branch ASLEF bank £27.96

Mutual Aid Fund £56.32

It was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. L. Stephenson. That the Branch Secretary’s report on the Branch Accounts be noted. Carried Unan.

The Chairman advised members that as this was the Annual Meeting of this branch, that nominations for Branch Officers would now take place.

Branch Chairman,  Bro. A. Brooker Vice Chairman. Bro. F. Diplock, Secretary. Bro. M. Allen, Assistant Secretary Bro. C. Exley

Trustee W. Baldwin, Scrutineer Bro. C. Exley, D.C. No.4 delegate Bro. A. Brooker, trades Council Bro. C. Exley

Branch Commitee

It was moved by Bro. A. Brooker and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock That other than the established Branch Committee members there be three ordinary members Carried unan 

Bros A. Ashdown, L. Stephenson & A. Dougherty were elected onto the Committee.

The Chairman declared the nominations and elections for the Branch officers over for 1979. The time date and place of meetings to remain same.

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report on items being dealt with.

Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

   Sunday April 22^nd  1979 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Vice Chairman reported that Bro. A. Brooker, Chairman of the Branch had died after an illness os some 9 weeks at 09.00 a.m. on Friday 13^th April 1979. Bro. A . Brooker aged 55 years was a long serving well respected member of the Branch. He was Branch Chairman for 18 years, L.D.C. member 27 years, L.D.C. Secretary for 18 years and had been associated with the branch in many other capacities. The loss to this branch was immeasurable and it was very rarely such a hard working man who worked for no reward, was to be found. Arnold was also involved with many other activities. Manpower Service commission Social Service, Trades Council, District council and others. The Vice Chairman asked members of the Branch to stand in silence, in memory of our departed colleague.

The Secretary read the minutes of the special meeting held on 14^th January 1979 and after amendment it  was moved C. Exley and seconded F. Diplock. That the amended minutes are a true record.

Correspondence

Letter from Waterloo Branch requesting support for D. Fullick in the E.C. elections. A reply has been sent in line with branch decision.

A letter from Tonbridge Branch re unofficial dispute, it was moved bty Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That the correspondence lay until called for. Carried Unan.

A letter from Bro. P. Plaine A.A.D. delegate asking for suggestions on items

A letter asking for support for Bro. A. Walkiden for Labour Party Conference

A letter from Bro. H. Love asking the branch to accept a donation for the branch funds in respect of the official strikes. It was moved by Bro. F. Diplock and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That the donation be accepted and monies deposited in the branch bank and further a letter be sent thanking Bro. H. Love.

A voting paper for Labour Party conference  has been received and it was moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That Bro. A. Walkiden be this branches nomination carried unan.

The collection for Bro. F. Diplock off sick six complete weeks and still off at the time, amounted to £24.30. Grateful thanks have been received. It was moved by Bro. C. Exley and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. The the Branch Secretary’s report noted. Carried unan.

The Branch Secretary reported that as from this meeting and as soon as it was possible he would have to resign his position as due to him taking over as L.D.C. Secretary and being Health & Safety Representative also he would be unable to put enough effort into all three jobs. He thanked all branch members for their co operation during his two years in office.

It was moved M. Allen and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. That Bro. C. Exley be nominated for Branch Secretary. There being no other nomination Bro. C. Exley was elected.

It was moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That Bro. M. Allen be nominated as Assistant Secretary. There being no ther nominations Bro. M. Allen was elected.

The L.D.C. secretary gave his report on

317 & 318 duties Sundays, Machinery of Negotiations, R.S.J.C. L574, Rest Days on Strike days. It was moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That the  Secretary’s report be noted. Carried unan.

There being no other business the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 13.00. 

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday August 19^th 1979 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The meeting at 10.30 a.m. by acting Chairman and it was move that the normal branch procedure be suspended to accommodate the visit to this branch be suspended to accommodate the visit to this branch by Executive Committee number for Southern Region Bro. Derek Fullick.

The meeting was informed by Bro. Fullick as to all the ongoing affairs of Head Office an a very full information and question time followed.

The Chairman of the meeting asked for a vote of thanks to be pass to Bro. D. Fullick for his time spent at our branch. Moved by Bro,. M. Allen and seconded Bro. L. Stephenson carried.

Bro. fullick replied that it was all part of his duties but he has enjoyed the visit to see how this branch was moving.

There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting closed at 12.30 p.m.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

 Sunday September 23^rd 1979 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman Bro. F. Diplock opened the meetings where requested to be read out by the Chairman. Bro. M. Allen asked rthat a full reading of the minute be carried out. This was backed up by the Chairman and duly carried out. The minutes were read by Branch Secretary Bro. C. Exley. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded Bro. W. Baldwin. That all minutes that were read a true record. 

The Chairman, the asked the Branch Secretary to read any correspondence and any late Head Office Office circulars which were received after a reasonable time with which they could have been posted for scrutiny by members of the branch.

The first item was was a letter from Hitchin Branch which is an appeal for the family of the late Bro. D. Marshall of that branch who had suffered and died of a heart attack.

A full discussion was held as to the merits of the appeal, Bro. W. Balwin stated that their was a minute pass to cover this item and requested the Branch Secretary to identify the same. The branch secretary replied that he would do the same. Moved by Bro.?? and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. That the letter be held over until the required information could be found. Carried. Unan.

The next item of correspondence was a request by Bro. J. Carney that the Branch Secretary write to Head Office re railway hosing accommodation. At this date this item is still in motion. Moved by Bro. J. Carney and seconded W. Baldwin.

That a satisfactory conduction to above item be gained. Carried no abstentions

The next item of correspondence was the alledged traffic offence incurred by Bro. D. Nye of this branch. Bro. D. Nye as this item had been In progress for a period of 12 months. The branch secretary stated that he was in correspondence with Head Office over this matter and hoped to gain a reply to this item shortly and would reply to this item at the next meeting of this branch.

The next item was a letter from acting area Welfare Officer and was being dealt with by L.D.C. Secretary.

The final item was a letter from E.S.T.A. that a public meeting which was to be held in Uckfield town hall on Monday the 24^th September and requesting a member of this branch  to attend. Branch Secretary said he would be attending. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That the branch secretary attend the meeting and report at next branch meeting the proceedings. Carried

Bro. M. Allen moved a late item of correspondence  to the Chair regarding the payment of wages after leave at Tunbridge Wells West. His request was brought to light because of Bro. A. Ashdown refusal to sign the unclaimed wages book adding that it was not necessary under the national payrole scheme. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. That the Branch Secretary write to Head office to get their view on the matter.

The Chairman then moved onto L.D.C. report which was given by L.D.C. Secretary Bro. M. Allen. Bro. Allen then listed the following he was persuing which are as follows

Minute L574

This is a long standing problem between staff side and management side over  the interpretation out on L.D.C.  Minute 18 by management over the operation of L574 this matter is now been progress to Section Council ‘B’ and still unresolved at this date.

Recruiting of guards at T.W.W. he had an assurance that some new staff were being trained as guards from area station manager. 

Diagrams and their scrutiny, this was tied to L574 and its problem.

Engineering meeting with Chief Traffic Officer to be held in the very near future with the hope of getting advanced information for passenger arrangement during engineering possessions.

Minute 60 65 Booking on and off allowance was a new item and was been dealt with it was hoped to have more to say on the subject at the next meting.

Claims for loss of earnings due to cancelation of Sunday work. This was to test the new R.S.N.T. Decision on the same see circular 87/1979.

Fuel shortage

This was a very new item and was brought about by the cut back in fuel supplies to B.R. by its suppliers.

Ballot of over Sunday services.

The out come was a unanimous ‘Yes’ vote.

Establishment

The depot was to be given two extra spare turns which ment increasing the depot establishment by two new drivers.

L.D.C. claim for a extra Sunday turn to be given to the depot for C.M.E.E. purposes was still being persuade by this L.D.C. and Sectional Council.

Edenbridge   bank holiday extra trains because of Edenbridge and Oxted agricultural show to be held on bank Holiday Monday. The L.D.C. were awaiting the results of a management survey for that day.

Staff travelling by taxi

This was a item which had originate from a meeting by the South London joint L.D.C. Staff Side but it may have grave repercussions for T.W.W. staff.

Cover duties Monday to Friday

It was hoped that with the increase of  spare turns from October, that the 0500 spare and 1300 spare could be re-designated cover and the 0425 cover be made a preparation and running work turn.

Agenda for L.D.C. Meetings

This was another matter for which the local management were not prepared to give staff side a clear answer on this item was being pass to Sectional Council ‘B’ to be resolved.

Bro. R. Harper and accommodation of drivers on shunt work due to ill health or medical reasons. The ballot of the drivers at the depot to examine the possibility of finding work shunting at the depot a yes vot in favour of the same.

R.S.N.T. 52

This is tied up with Head Office circular 143/79 and this L.D.C. and branch were going to reply to this in due course.

Plug for electricity supply in mess room

Under the Health and Safety act, that a socket should be available for use in the mess room and it was a matter of urgency and the L.D.C. Secretary was in correspondence with the area depot manager.

This concluded the L.D.C. report.

The Chairman then asked for any other business

The Branch Secretary ask the branch’s permission to purchase a lever arch file. Moved Bro. C. Exley and seonded by Bro. M. Allen. That this branch purchase the necessary file from branch funds. 

Their being no other business the Chair man closed the meeting at 13.15 p.m.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Meeting

Sunday November 18^th 1979 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock and there were five members present

The minutes of the September meeting were read out and is moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded Bro. A. Young. That the minutes were a true record of the September meeting. Carried Unanimously.

The Chairman then moved on to a very pressing item which was the collection that had been held for Bro. V. Rumley of this branch. Bro. Rumley retired from railway service on the 21^st July, 1979. Their had been a collection held for him and £37.50 had been raised it was suggested by the Chairman that a function be held at a local hostery and that a gift as a token be presented to Bro. Rumley. Moved by the Chairman and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. That a presentation pen set be purchase and presented to Bro. Rumley. Carried Unanimously.

The Chairman went on further to suggest that invitation to attend the function be sent to Mr. Bagihole ex Sectional Council ‘B’ Representative and long time friend of Bro. Rumley. Moved by the Chairman. That the Branch Secretary be instructed to write to both Bro. Rumley and Mr. Bagihole to inform them of this branch’s intention. Crried Unanimously.

The Chairman then went on to suggest a venue for the function and a date for the same. The venue was the Lord Cornwallis public house and the date was 29^th November, which was a Thursday.

(The actual venue was changed to the Kelsey Arms, because the Lord Corwallis was already booked)

It was also moved that the branch Secretary write to Mr. Bagihole friend Bro. Rumley and also Sectional Council ‘B’ member be informed of the change. 

After the Chairman’s speech we were moved on to correspondence

National League for the blind were circulating a letter to all trade union branches in Great Britain which was a request for a collection they are holding to boast their funds. Move Bro. W. Baldwin. That this particular item was cover by a previous branch minute and therefore it should be held over till it could be cleared up.

After Circular the Chairman moved onto Items of correspondence.

Bro. John Carney, housing Albert road Tonbridge. That a letter been sent of to A.S.L.E.F. Head Office but  matters had progressed since this letter and been sent and the branches support was know longer required.

East Sussex Travellers Association, and a meeting which was held at Uckfield Town Hall and a further meeting at Brecon School, Crowborough.

That this branch would support the action of any association which as the stated aim of reinstating dismantled railway lines i.e .Lewes – Uckfield. Moved Bro. C. Exley and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock.

This concluded correspondence.

The Chairman then requested the L.D.C. Secretary to give his report, the report follows.

Staff travelling in taxis, Bro. R. Harpers accommodation on 312 duty, Christmas Holiday Arrangements.

The gaining of three claims for payment for drivers who were booked off duty to cancellation of the empty trains to St Leonards West Marina on Sundays.

Radio communication on trains between cab and signal box.

N.U.R & A.S.L.E.F.

The setting up of one party to negotiated for footplate staff.

That concluded L.D.C. and District Council report, the Chairman then called for nominations for two vacancies on the L.D.C.

That Bro. J. Carney of this branch be nominated as the official L.D.C. candidate for the same. Nominated by Bro. A. Young and seconded by Bro. M. Allen.

There being no other candidates, Bro. J. Carney was adopted as the official L.D.C. representative. This left one vacancy unfilled. The Branch Chairman stated that a request be sent to management asking that the closing date for nominations be extended to permit the branch to find a nominee.

The Chairman the asked for any other business.

Moved by Bro. C. Exley and seconded by Bro. M. Allen. That this branch in accordance with Society rule No.37 clause 11 shall adopt a set of standing orders. Carried Unanimously.

There  being no other business the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 1300

 Tunbridge Wells Branch Special Meeting

Sunday December 2^nd 1979 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

Special meeting concerned at the usual venue on the 2.12.79 at 1030. Addition to above minutes from additional meeting called to nominate as below and complte unfinished business held over. The elction of Branch Officwers for the yar 1980. These were conducted as follows.

The positon of Chairman was offered by the meeting to Bro. F. Diplock who accepted there were no contestants. The position of Branch Secretary was offered by to meeting to meeting to the existing Secretary who accepted as there were contestants the resolution there being no contestants the resolution was carried.

The sole remaining vacancy to be filled on the L.D.C. moved by Bro. M. allen and seconded by Bro. A. young. That Bro. D. Godden of this branch be nominated to fill the one remaining vacancy on the L.D.C. Carried unanimously.

There being no other contestants, Bro. D. Godden was duly appointed.

The position of District Council Delegate was offered to the L.D.C. Secretary as it was a past practice the two jobs had always be allied at this branch.

The positon of Trades Council delegate was also vacated as Bro. R. Bridger wish to relinquish his position on the same as their were volunteers who wish to the task. The Branch Secretary expressed his wish to fill the position as there were no contestants this was carried.

The Chairman then asked for any other business

The Branch Secretary then drew the attention of the meeting to circular 211/1979 T.U.C. Youth Conference and asked the Branch’s permission to be nominated to attend the same. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock. That Bro. C. Exley be nominated by this Branch to attend the T.U.C. Youth Conference. Carried.

Tunbridge Wells Branch  Meeting

Sunday January 27^th 1980 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The chairman was  Bro. F. Diplock, Secretary was Bro. C. Exley. There were five members present.

Minutes

Due to the fact that Secretary had mislaid his notes from the last branch meeting and were therefore left unread. The Chairman express his concern of this matter but suggested the meeting move onto items of correspondence.

Centenary Function

A letter sent from Union Head Office to all branches which set out the Society’s plans to celebrate its centenary with a function and social event at the South Bank, London, on the 10^th April 1980. This letter also contained an induction for two member of this branch to attend same.

That two representatives from this branch be selected and their names be forwarded to Head office to receive a official Invitation to attend. Moved by Bro. R. Harris and seconded by Bro. R. Harper. That Bros. M. Allen and C. Exley be selected to represent  this branch at this function.

The next item was that Bro. C. Exley of this branch had been nominated by the Executive Committee to represent this Society at the T.U.C. Youth Congress at Congress House with Bro. R. Johnson of Stratford Branch and Bro. C. Buckingham of West Brompton branch. 

There being no further items of correspondence. The Chairman moved onto the next items which were circulars.

The Chairman moved onto L.D.C. report for this purpose he asked the L.D.C. Secretary to give details. 

Staff restricted to depot or shunting work due to illness or pending medical affairs report. This was for the items as they affected Bro. R. Harper of this item.

Management to afford facilities for drivers at depots full route learning over routes where they move been given rostered train work specifically duty 319 at T.W.W. depot.

The Secretary noted the progress so far with the issue of diagram scrutiny

This is typed in with the latter issue but was more specifically dealing with R.S.J.C. min L574.

Cover duties move especially at weekends at the progress made with management on this issue.

The L.D.C Secretary told the meeting of management’s policy in regard to D.E.M.U. No.1111, which was supposed to be the first of all these types of trains to be given a refurbishment and modification treatment and its future traffic action.

Free passes and their issue to staff this was the request by member of the depot to time free ticket issued to all staff at this depot at Tunbridge Wells West station.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch A Special Meeting

Sunday February 10^th 1980 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

This meeting was called by the branch secretary on the request of Bros. M. Allen and W. Baldwin both Committee Members on the instruction of the Branch Chairman.

Bro. W. Badldwin was acting chairman as the branch chairman had other prior engagements.

Bro. J. Carney assistant Secretary was elected Secretary was Acting Secretary because the Branch Secretary had prior engagements.

The first item to be dealt with was the centenary function to be held at Queen Elizabeth Hall Southbank London to celebrate the 100 years of this union. When this item came before the last meeting there had been some misunderstanding as to just who could attend the above as the representatives of this branch. The circular No. 23/1980 received just after the last meeting clarified this point and in the light of which Bro. C. Exley reludantly stood down to allow Mrs. M.A.H. allen attend. Bro. C. Exley made known his action by letter to the meeting.

Moved by Bro. D. Godden and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. That in the light of the information contained in Head Office circular No.23/1980 in respect of who could represent this branch.

That the representatives to attend the A.S.L.E.F. Centenary function April 1980 and the representative nominated from the last meeting be Bros. M. Allen and C. Exley be recinded and a new minute in favour of Bro. M. Allen and his wife attend as this branch’s representatives. Carrined unan. 

Moved by Bro W. Baldwin Chairman That the Branch Secretary to inform Head Office of the above branch minute.

The next item on the agenda was a letter sent from Victoria branch requesting this branch to hold a collection on behalf of the late Bro. W. Long of their depot.

Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. That a collection be taken up by the Branch secretary of the behalf of the Late Bro. W. Long of Victoria.

A third item of the agenda of the meeting was deferred till a full branch meeting.

 Tunbridge Wells Special Branch  Meeting

Sunday April 20^th 1980 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The chairman was  Bro. F. Diplock, Secretary was Bro. C. Exley. There were nine members present.

The Chairman opened the meeting and asked Bro. M. Allen L.D.C.  Secretary to give details of the meeting and the reason he asked for it to be called.

He explained details of the history of the grievance with local management. He went on to detail a ballot held early at the depot which the membership to back back the L.D.C. strong line after the 20^th May, 1979. when other depots were given extra work when Tunbridge Wells depot was not, he went on to explain the whole history from 1976 after the B.R. S.T.O.P.S. exercise which affected the train service between Oxted and Eridge

After the above Chairman then put the matter to the floor where a full and very enlightening discussion was held. Where it was felt that Sectional Council ‘B’ had been ignoring matters at this depot and that a letter be sent to state this depot dissatisfaction with the way matters have been dealt with.

Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. That the Branch Secretary write a letter to be addressed to the general secretary personally stating the following.

This Branch is concerned about the lack of interest given by sectional council ‘B’ over Sunday duties at this depot are been that  we at this depot are being victimised by the Divisional managers office at Croydon. Carried unan

A further minute as follows

Moved by the L.D.C secretary with the backing of the whole depot via a vote taken on the 30^th July 1979 seconded by Bro. J. Norris

That a day of action be held Tuesday 22^nd April 1980 and if management try to implement the same or very similar duties for Sunday 27^th April we take another day of action on Friday 25^th April. This action is to be a 24 hour withdrawal of labour in each case.

All the forgoing as per submitted to the Area Depot Manager Friday 18^th April 1980. 

 Tunbridge Wells Branch  Meeting

   Sunday May 4^th 1980 10.50 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was  Bro. W. Baldwin, Secretary was Bro. C. Exley. There were six members present.

The Minutes of the last meting where read out. This meeting was held on Sunday 27^th January 1980 Bro. M. Alen moved the minutes were true record, seconded by Bro. J. Carney.

The minutes of meeting before the above were a true record due to the fact the the minutes were incomplete at the last full meeting. Moved by bro. j. Carney and seconded by Bro. M. Allen.

The minutes of the Special Meeting held on Sunday 2^nd December 1979 were a true record were a true record. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Carney.

The minutes of  Special meeting held on Sunday 20^th April 1980 were a true record. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Carney.

The chairman brought the meetings attention to a point in the minutes of the meeting of Sunday 18^th November 1979 and also a letter in front of him from Bro. V. Rumley retired of this Branch. The letter was a thank you from Bro. Rumley after a retirement function had been held in his honour at the Kelsey  Arms Tunbridge Wells.

The Chairman moved to the Branch Secretary a vote of thanks for arranging the same. He then put before the Branch that the secretary write to Bro. V. Rumley inviting to become an honorary member of this Branch.

Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. L. Stephenson . That the branch Secretary write to Bro. V. Rumley inviting him to be an honorary member of this Branch. Carried Unan.

Bro M. Allen the moved from the floor that this meeting express via  a letter a vote of thanks for all the stirling work put in by him over the past years to Bro. Bridger. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That the Secretary write to Bro. Bridger to express a vote of thanks to him for his work in the Branch. Carried unan

The Chairman then brought the meetings attention  to minute 71/80 which is a request from Victoria branch that we at this branch  hold a coolection for Bro. W. Long’s family after Bro. W. Long had died. Suddenly the Chairman had asked why the Secretary had not held a collection. 

The secretary brought the meetings attention to the fact that he had requested that Victoria branch hold a collection for Bro. V. Rumley on his retirement which they failed to do. The Chairman then asked the Secretary to hold a collection for Bro. long has his was a death and it was always the policy of this branch to help the family of a member of this union who died suddenly  whilst employed by British Rail.

The Chairman moved onto Branch minute and asked this minutes had now expired, that a new minute be made to cover this subject.

Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded D. Ward. That on every occasion until further notice that other depots are rostered work on Sundays south of Oxted on the Uckfield line, and this depot is not given equal share of the work above Oxted. Industrial Action will be taken by this branch. Carried unan.

The Chairman asked that further to the above a letter of protest to be sent by the Secretary to our Union Head Office for the attention of the General Secretary with a copy of the same be sent to the Organising Secretary to complain at the lack of interest been shown by these people and by the Sectional Council ‘B’ in this branch’s dispute. It was moved from the floor that this branch as a form of protest do not support the stand given by this union to the T.U.C. day of action on May 14^th 1980. Further if this did not bring the required result, that the membership of this branch to change their union.

Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. D. Ward. That the Branch Secretary write to our Head Office stating this branch’s disapproval of their lack of action over this branch’s dispute with local management.

The Chairman then moved to voting paper received from head office after the following item.

T.U.C. District No.2 election of delegate Bro. J. Rowe was given this branch’s support.

Labour Party Conference District No. 2  election of delegate Bro. E.A. Stratton of Eastleigh was given the Branch’s support.

Section Council ‘B’ election of representative for the Central Division Bro. W.T. Eames was given this branch’s support 

Parliamentary Panel This paper was not voted upon as there were no candidates from the Southern Region.

The Chairmen then moved onto L.D.C. report and called for the L.D.C. Secretary to give the same. The L.D.C. Secretary listed the items which are as follows.

Failed staff, route learning, diagrams, cover duties, 1111 D.E.M.U. refurbishment , free passes, Oxted plan for rail network and its future, Car parking and motorcycling at the depot at T.W.W. and dispute – Oxted line services.

Health and Safety, a visit by inspecting officer to visit Tunbridge Wells area on June 18^th 1980.

The Chairman then asked for any other business.

A movement from the floor by Bro. L. Stephenson That the Branch persue a agreement with management over the way in which rest day working is booked to individual drivers. The Chairman asked that as time was getting short that this item rest till the next meeting.

Moved by  Bro. J. Carney and seconded by Bro. M. allen. That at the next branch meeting we adopt standing order. Carried

The chairman closed the meeting at 13.45 and asked that the next meeting be held one month from the date of the meeting now recorded.

 Tunbridge Wells Branch  Meeting

   Sunday June 22^nd 1980 10.50 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was  Bro. F. Diplock, who opened the meeting. With four members present.

The Minutes of the last meting where read out and it was brought to the attention of the Secretary that there was an error in the following paragraph in the section of voting papers. Third paragraph sixth letter the word not was omitted from the same. This was rectified and initalded by the chairman. It was then moved by Bro. J. Carney.and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That the minutes were a true record of the meeting held on Sunday 4^th May. Carried unan

The chairman then moved onto the next item of business which was this branch’s adoption of standing orders in accordance with society rule no.37 paragraph II. The orders where drawn up by Bro. J. Carney and were fully discussed and it was put tot the floor to adopt the same when they had been rectified and altered. That the standing orders has drawn up by Bro. J. Carney be adopted by this branch. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. C. Exley.

Chairman then moved to Head Office circulars and correspondence 

Letter from A.S.L.E.F. head office dealing with centenary silver badges.

Letter from Bro. N. Milligan District Organiser for District, concerning this branch’s dispute with local British Railways management.

Letter from Doncaster branch who are holding an appeal on the behalf of a member of their branch Bro. J. Burden who has suffer an illness of some severity.

The Chairman then asked if their were any items arising out of the items of correspondence.

Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. That old minute dealing with the way this branch donated to request for financial help to our fraternity on other regions other than the Southern Region be recinded and the following be adopted.

That we at this Branch will now donate to any collection for loco-men on any region. This collection to be held at the loco depot only where the collection its for man known to all the staff at Tunbridge Wells West then the collection be held at the station as well.

The Chairman then asked the Secretary to put forward the following recommendation in the light of the low standing of the branch funds due to raising administration costs. That we at this branch investigate the possibilaty into fund raising activities to boast branch funds. The Chairman asked Bro. J. Carney who has done this sort of work before make a recommendation at the next branch meeting.

The Chairman then called upon the L.D.C. Secretary to give his report of matter arising to the meeting.

L.D.C. items

D.E.M.U. specifications, Track Circuit Clips, Unit 1111 this item still standing, drivers to be trained in the use of fire fighting equipment,

Plan for rail network Oxted area. The L.D.C. expected a meeting with Central Division Management to discuss this subject with Sectional Council. 

Energy conservation fuel shortage re the strengthening of the 06.22 empty train to Uckfield from 6 cars to 9 cars.

Cover Duties. Redignation of 04.00 a.m. to 05.00 a.m. also 13.00 cover Monday to Saturday and the gaining of a Saturday only 12.30 C.M.E.E. cover and Sundays 07.00 a.m. cover.

Oxted line Sunday services, the retiming of the Uckfield to Tonbridge service to make a connection at Tonbridge with Reading service.

Driver R. Harper at T.W.W. who is medically restricted.

The Chairman then asked the meeting if their was any other items of business to be brought before the meeting. 

The Chairman then declared the meeting closed at 12.55 p.m.

Tunbridge Wells Branch  Meeting

Sunday October 19^th 1980 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The meeting was attended by 12 members of the Branch and the chairman was  Bro. F. Diplock  who opened the meeting at 10.30 a.m.

The Minutes of the June meeting put before the meeting. As this was the last full meeting as this was the last full meeting of the branch due to the fact that august meeting failed to gain a quorum.

The minutes of the June meeting were a true record of the business of the branch. Moved Bro. J. Carney and seconded by Bro. M. Allen. adopted.

Items of correspondence were the first matter put before the branch by the chairman. The secretary put before the meeting letters received by this branch from branches in the society who were requesting this branch donate to collections held by them for members of their branches who have suffered disabilating illnesses. A minute was now in order at and to facilate this. The secretary ask that we adopt some form of fund raising to enable this branch to donate to these and any further requests. It was suggested by the floor that the secretary and the chairman hold collections on behalf of the already received letters till such machinery can be set up to deal with this minute. All other letters of request from affiliated charities be dealt on merit by successive branch meetings. 

The Chairman then asked the meeting to move on to head office circulars which had been posted in the drivers mess room at Tunbridge Wells West depot. These included all the circulars which would have been dealt with at the cancelled August meeting.

The Chairman raised the implications of Circular 219/1980 loss of traffic and proposed cuts in traffic, and the way it was to affect this depot especially in the light of what he had been told by the L.D.C. Secretary who had received correspondence from. B.R. southern Region in relation to loss of earnings due to abandonment of weekend services.

The Chairman then moved to L.D.C. nominations for two positions which were up for renewal.

Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. That Bro. M. Allen be re-elected to L.D.C. to continue his good work as the secretary. Carried Unan.

The second position for the L.D.C. was then put before meting, it was moved from the floor that Bro. G. Brown of ‘B’ shift has indicated verbally that he would be prepared to stand, but as he did not indicate by letter to the meeting or by the fact that he did not attend the meeting.

Moved by Bro. D. Ward and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. That Bro. A. Young be asked to retake his position on the L.D.C. Carried 11 for and 1 against.

The Chairman then moved onto notice of motion as presented by Bro. J. Carney, they are as follows.

Motion 1

The T.W.W. branch be held every 3^rd Sunday of each month to discuss normal branch and union business also to deal with L.D.C. business. This motion was differred to the Annual General Meeting.

Motion 2

The winter leave for 1981 and every year will be split into two one week periods i.e. one week in the early part of the year and the other in the later part of the year.

An amendment to motion No.2 was moved and was as follows

After year in the first line substitute the follwing. That we pursue three weeks to be taken in the summer period and one week in the winter period.

The Chairman asked the meeting to first consider the amendment and opened the discussion to the floor were the opinion was that B.R. management would not consider such a request and therefore asked the amendment to be withdrawn. That amendment to notice of motion be withdrawn. Moved by Bro. D. Ward and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin

The floor was then asked to vote on the minute and gave the following result 2 for 10 against and the amendment was lost.

The Chairman moved to the motion and the following was adopted hat this branch adopt the notice of motion. Moved by Bro. J. Carney and seconded by Bro. J. Norris. The meeting was asked to vote on the motion and gave the following result. 10 for the motion and 2 against, the motion was carried.

The Chairman then asked the L.D.C. Secretary to report on their business.

Mutual change of duties, meeting called by management, R. Harper who is medically restricted.

The gaining of an early turn to complement the late turn he already has (a ballot was held to ask members of ‘B’ shift if they approved of the L.d.c. action the outcome of which was as follows 10 for 1 against and 1 no).

Proposed new roster to accommodate Bro. Harper on these new turns of duty from November 14^th 1980.

Annual leave which is adjusted to accommodate training will be treat by management and any new date will be honoured.

Complaints after installation of new rubbish disposal bins adjacent to car park which could possibly damage drivers car staff side have reported that these be moved.

319 duty and the movement of empty stock from London Bridge station to New Cross gate and Selhurst, Trees and foliage, cuts in services and B.R.S. proposal as they affect this depot i.e. loss of Sunday starting from the 1^st of June 1981.

That concluded L.D.C. report and the Chairman then asked for any other business as there was not any forthcoming, the Chairman closed the meeting at 12.40 p.m. with a thank you to all attended a very good meeting. 

Tunbridge Wells Annual General  Meeting

Sunday  December 1980 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The meeting opened 10.30 with five members present.

The minutes of the meeting held at the above venue on Sunday 19^th October 1980. Moved by Bro. J. Carney and seconded by Bro. M. Allen. That the minutes of October were a true record. Carried Unan

As this is the Annual General Meeting the Chairman moved to the election of Brach Officers. Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. That all officer of the branch be returned from the year 1980 and also that the the Chairman be appointed as a  further trustee for this branch. Carried Unan

the Annual Assembly of Delegates. But Bro. Marchant  of St. Leonards Branch would like to be considered to take the place of Bro. Plaine at the Annual Assembly of Delegates.

Bro. M. Allen suggested that if the Bro. Marchant of St. Leonards was elected perhaps he would bring new ideas forward at the Assembley and Bro. Allen moved that perhaps this branch should support Bro. Marchant of St. Leonards. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That this branch vote for Bro Marchant of St Leonards.

The Chairman then called upon the L.D.C. Secretary to give his report on L.D.C. items and also his report of District Council meetings.

The L.D.C. Secretary gave his report of District Council No. 4 meetings he stated that the General Secretary addressed the meeting by giving his report following the publication of the Monopolies’ and Mergers Commission report in the London and South East area rail services. The General Secretary stated that the use of lieu or compensation days plus days leave without pay were included in the total of days that the national press used as absenteeism days. The L.D.C. Secretary then went on to list the other items of business of the D.C. 

After addressing the meeting with the fact of the D.C. meeting, the L.D.C. Secretary then went on to items of the L.D.C. business which was as follows.

Faults & Failure Guides, B.R. owned Housing Accommodation and Bro. R. Harris. He then went to list items which were in correspondence and Health & Safety, these were as follows.

Staff sided request for cover turns at weekends.

Eridge engineer’s sidings down siding

Mutual exchange of shifts by Bro A. Rigby and Bro. G. Ellard. 

Outstanding Annual Leave taken it could be taken subject traffic requirements. Request by Driver Plummer to have lieu leave on December 24^th 1980. Refused by management because of holiday arrangements. Uncertified leave, sickness reasons due to staff not having been paid after of less than three days because they refuse to complete the forms posted to them from the Area Depot Manager.

That concluded L.D.C. report the Chairman then requested the meeting for any matters arising from the L.D.C. report. The membership asked that the Branch Secretary write to A.S.L.E.F. Head Office to get the E.C. to back our cause against the Area Depot Manager over the payment for uncertified leave due to sickness. The Chairman back this call and so he instructed the secretary to do the same and to enclose the forms that A.G.M. posted to the members of this branch.

The Chairman then asked for any other business.

It was moved that we at this branch adopt the fund raising scheme as suggested by Bro. J. Carney. That this branch adopt a football pontoon to raise funds for the use of the branch. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. Carried Unan

After this the Chairman asked for any other business, there was not any forth coming then the chairman closed the meeting by thanking all for attending the meeting closed at 13.45 p.m. 

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

January & February 

Sunday 15th  February 1981 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock and the Secretary was Bro. J. Carney due to the fact that Bro. Exley had worked a late finishing duty for the previous night.

There were 6 members present when the meeting opened at 11 o’clock.

The Chairman asked for he minutes of the last meeting were brought before the meeting and were taken as a true record of that meeting. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded Bro. C. Exley. Carried unan

The Chairman then apologised to the meeting for not calling the January meeting but he moved that the next meeting take place on Sunday 22^nd March 1981.

Bro. W. Baldwin asked the Branch Secretary if he had written to A.S.L.E.F. Head Office to secure payment for members of this branch who have not been paid when they had taken days from duty due to sickness and if he had, had a reply.

The Secretary Bro. C. Exley informed the meeting that he had sent the letter to A.S.L.E.F. but at this date he had not received a reply, he brought before the meeting a copy of the letter he sent to Head office.

Bro. Baldwin asked the Chairman to hold the progress of the meeting until he had left because he had to start his duty.

The Chairman then moved the meeting to Head office circulars. The Chairman asked the meeting to note that if the society had received the circulars then would he past them in the drivers messroom at the depot. The Chairman further moved that the circulars which were posted for this meeting be reposted in the drivers mess room he asked the member to note. It was then moved by Bro. J. Norris and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That all circulars to be taken as read to be posted in the drivers mess room until the next meeting.

The Chairman progressed the meeting to items of correspondence the Secretary read out three letters and items of correspondence which were in progress. 

1 Bro. C. Exley re incident at Tonbridge

2 Bro. R. Harris re accommodation

Bro. L. Stephenson re fatality at Lingfield and his treatment after the incident.

The L.D.C. secretary had one item of correspondence he had one item to bring to the notice of the meeting.

This item was the way in which the A.D.M. issued a form one item to bring to the notice of the meeting.

The chairman asked the meeting to instruct Bro. H. Love who is a member of this society but is employed as a time keeper at the depot, not to accept delivery of form one type of charge no should he sign in writing for responsibility of the same.

The Chairman then asked for matter arising from of correspondence and head office circulars.

Bro. C. Exley then asked the membership of the meeting that if any member of this branch wished to attend the society school at Dorking for 1982 let him know as soon as possible because this year this school had been over subscribed and he felt that the earliest we could submit and application to gain a place on the course.

The Chairman the moved the meeting to Head Office circular the Chairman asked the meeting to note that if the society had received the circulars then would he past them in the drivers mess room at the depot. The chairman further moved that the circulars which were pasted for this meeting be reposted in the drivers mess room he asked the members to note.

It was then moved by Bro. J. Norris and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. That all circulars to be taken as read to be posted in the driver’s mess room until the next meeting. Unan.

The Chairman progressed the meeting to items of correspondence which were in progress

Bro. C. Exley re incident at Tonbridge, Bro. R. Harris re accommodation & Bro. L. Stephenson re fatality at Lingfield and his treatment after the incident.

This item was the way in which the A.D.M. issued a Form One change to a member of this branch. The Chairman asked the meeting to instruct Bro. H. Love, who is a member of this Society, but is employed as a Time Keeper at the depot, not to accept delivery of the Form One type of charge nor should he sign on writing for responsibility of the same.

The Chairman then asked for matters arising from items of correspondence and Head Office circular.

Bro. C. Exley then asked the membership of the meeting that if any member of this branch wished to attend the Society school at Dorking for 1982 let him know as soon as possible because this year this school had been over subscribed and he felt that the earliest we could submitted a application to gain a place on the course.

As there were no other matters arising the Chairman asked the L.D.C. Secretary to give his report.

Uncertified sickness – a letter had been sent to Sectional Council ‘B’ and they replied that a meeting with management is to be held over this matter.

I.U.P. Payments – It was discovered that no payment was made when members were going to attend medical examination. Sectional Council’B’ were requesting a meeting with management over this.

Bro. R. Plummer – Bank Holiday – day off duty with loss of pay was declined by the A.D.M. this was resolved with Bro. J. Norris.

Bro. Herriot Query over payment of wages

Operation of machinery of negotiation  - still pending 

Bro R. Harris accommodation now been handled over to A.S.L.E.F head office awaiting reply.

Disciplinary letters sent from A.D.M. to M.P.S. or driver concerned by Leading Railman

Bro. R. MacDonald – claim for driver rate of payment which had been turned down now has been paid.

Sunday workings been issued after the L574 scrutiny on duplicate sheets which showed train retimings from Tonbridge o the 1^st February 1981. a reply has now been received.

Cover duties now have been implemented from Saturday 21^st February 1981 = 332 Saturday 16.00 will now become 12.30 and cover duties = 320 06.00 cover duty.

Claim by Bro. J. Norris over loss of driving duty Sunday. Management now waiting reply from Bro. J. Norris.

The Chairman then move the following items which he thought should be passed.

He asked if the Physical Needs Break for Duty No.326 could be moved from New Cross Gate because the membership at the branch thought that the facilities there were not adequate. He felt that London Bridge would make the best place to have the break rostered. The L.D.C. Secretary replied that this was now in hand and should take place at the March Permanent Alterations.

The Chairman then asked about the use of Diesel Electric Units on which the Advance Warning System was operative. He highlighted the use of unit from theSouth Western Division which had A.W.S. operative and were coming into use over Central Division lime where A.W.S. had been fitted but the driver had not had full A.W.S. training.

Bro. Allen replied that has far as he was concerned he and a few other drivers were trained, and he had not isolated the system because he felt it gave us all a chance to use the equipment before it became standard practice on Central Division, if it was felt that the drivers who had not been trained on it use were uneasy over its operation then he and those who had been trained in its operation should take steps to isolate the system until all had been trained until use. The fact that it was totally new to some of the members of this branch made them feel uneasy about the approach to Victoria were it was operative did not stop them from obey the signals displayed required less of the indication in cab given by A.W.S.

The Chairman then asked Bro. J. Carney to give his report of the pontoon funding raising. Bro. Carney inform the meeting of the response and said that there would £2.10 to enter to branch funds when it had been completed.

The Chairman asked for any other business as none was forthcoming  he closed the meeting at 13.00 and thanked all for attending.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

   Sunday 29th  March 1981 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

There were five members present, the Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock

The Chairman opened the meeting at 11.00 a.m. and asked the secretary to read before the meeting the minutes from the last meeting.

That the minutes of the February meeting were a true record of that meeting. Moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin. Carried Unan.

The Chairman then asked Secretary to put before the meeting the items of correspondence.

Bro. A. Rigby and his request to the Secretary to get for him a card to allow himself to stop paying his political fund.

Letter from A.S.L.E.F. which was requesting branches to supply information of Branch Funds and also due to the increasing costs of administration the Society’s attempts to hold down expenditure.

Letter from A.S.L.E.F. which is a reply to a letter from this Branch to supply A.S.L.E.F. with details of the stand taken by B.R. Management when members have taken one or two days from duty because of sickness. I asked that this branch supply details of members who have not been paid because of the stand of Management.

Letter from Trades Council with a form to return to T. C. giving details of Branch Officers.

One further item of correspondence was for a driver who is under Railway Medical Officers Supervision.

The Chairman then moved to L.D.C. business.

Route Learning i.e. Selhurst and the loss of Sunday work.

The Chairman then moved onto any other business and matters arising The L.D.C. Secretary then gave a detailed report of the progress with lost of Sunday Work from the 1^st July 1981. He listed the costs and losses incurred and the counter argument as put forward by management. There was full discussion and the meeting gave full support to the L.D.C. in its action to presume the work which we at this branch feel we are about to loss. 

After this discussion the Chairman  asked for any other items.

The Secretary asked that the meeting endorse the Secretary in his move to have the Executive Committee member of Southern Region, Bro. D. Fullick to attend the May Branch meeting to inform the meeting of this Society’s current policy over wages and conditions of service and also  to present a number of long service awards to members of this branch.

That the Branch Secretary write to the E.C. Member with the intention of inviting him to the May Branch meeting. Moved Bro. C. Exley and seconded by Bro. M. Allen.

After the above the Chairman then called for any other business after which, as there was no more business he called the meeting to a close at 13.00 p.m.

Tunbridge Wells Special Meeting

Sunday 26th  April 1981 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The business of discussing the loss of Sunday work and what action this branch can take.

There were seventeen members present, and the main item were as follows, the branch Secretary was unable to attend but he sent a letter to state that he would back any decision made at the meeting.

Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock, Secretary Bro. J. Carney and assistant Chairman Bro. G. Brown.

The first motion before the meeting was.

"That this depot instructs our L.D.C. to put the following ultimatum before management. That unless this depot retains its percentage of Sunday work then this depot will be in dispute with management in conjunction with the traffic L.D.C.”

 Moved by Bro. G. Brown and seconded by Bro. R. Macdonald.

After full and proper discussion the vote was taken and was as follows. 

For the motion 15, against 0 & abstantenious  1. Motion carried.

The second motion before the meeting was as follows.

"That if we at this depot are to lose our Sunday work then we do not entertain any special openings on Sundays for fueling of engines or stock working. We further will not any longer do any train work on Bank or Public Holidays or undertake to do any loan work. All the above are not to clash with any motion for action from the traffic grades.” Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. Carried unam.

The third notice of motion put before the meeting was.

That we have a one day stoppage on Friday 1^st May 1981, this will be subject to any positive intervention by management. 

Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. D. Ward. Carried unam. 

The forth notice of motion put before the meeting was as follows.

That a delegation be sent to Waterloo on Tuesday May 19^th 1981 to meet the General Manager to protest at the unfair allocation of Sunday work and the complete withdrawal of Sunday duties at Tunbridge Wells West. Further we inform other staff grades at Tunbridge Wells West of our intention and ask them to note that anyone who wishes to accompany this delegation to Waterloo may do so. Management would be officially informed on the previous Friday, 13^th May 1981 of this action, those who wish to travel to Waterloo must do so on the 09.33 from Tunbridge Wells Central or other convenient station and to apply for free travel or pay privileged rate.

Bro. F. Diplock declined the chair to the Assistant Chairman to speak to the meeting.

Moved Bro. F. Diplock and seconded D. Rodger. The voting was for the motion 14, against 0 & abstention 2.

The fifth notice of motion before the meeting was.

That if industrial action was to be taken that it follow this pattern

Early turn drivers strike – Monday

Late turn Guards strike – Tuesday

Signalmen strike – Wednesday

Late turn Driver’s strike – Thursday

Early turn Guard’s strike – Friday.

Bro. M. Allen moved the following amendment.

All of the above to be adopted only after full consultation with the relevant L.D.C. and after an open meeting where all can be consulted. So the above motion be held open till such meeting could be convened.

After the above the Chairman closed the meeting as there was no other business before the meeting it closed at 12.40.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

   Sunday 10th  May 1981 11.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

There were eleven members present, the Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock

Also in attendance at the meeting were the E.C. Member for Southern Region Bro. D. Fullick and the Organising Secretary Southern Area Bro. N. Milligan.

The Chairman called the meeting to order and opened the meeting by asking the Secretary to read the minutes of the last meetings of this branch.

The Secretary read the minutes from the last full branch meeting held on the 29^th March 1981. After this the Chairman asked if there were any matter arising from the minutes of the last meeting.

Bro. W. Baldwin asked if the Secretary if he had, had any reply to his letter sent to A.S.L.E.F. Head Office to get clarification over the subject of absence due to sickness for one or two days. The Secretary stated that he had received a notice of receipt of letter only.

The Chairman then asked if the minutes of the last meeting were a true record of that meeting. 

That the minutes of the last meeting were a true record of that meeting. Moved Bro. J. Carney and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin.

The Chairman then asked if the Secretary would read the minutes of the Special Meeting held on the 26^th April 1981 at the usual venue.

After the minutes were read to the meeting the Chairman asked for any item arising from the minutes. Bro. W. Baldwin asked the meeting to note the call for strike action from the last meeting to point out to the officials of the Society that it was a call for strike action with which the members of the National Union of Railwaymen had rejected. That they would like to join our call for strike action to show that they felt aggrieved at the loss of Sunday work at this depot and branch.

That the minutes of the last meeting which was a special meeting were a true record. Moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. R. Macdonald. Carried unam.

The Chairman then moved onto Head Office circular and any matters that may arise. He asked that all the circulars be putted in the notice case at the depot. As there were no matters arising the Chairman then asked the Secretary to move on to items of correspondence.

A letter from Portsmouth Branch which is a request from their branch to ask members of this branch to donate to a fund for the family of Bro. M. Lee who was killed in the course of his duties.

Letter from the Executive Committee and the subject was the industrial action at this depot.

The Chairman asked the meeting if there were any matters arising from the correspondence he asked the secretary to display the letter from Portsmouth Branch and make a collection in the usual way.

Bro. M. Allen gave his opinion to the meeting and called for a vote of thanks to be passed from the meeting to the E.C. member present to thank him for his support in the dispute at this depot.

Bro. W. Ovenden then rose and gave his statement and he felt that we at his branch taking past events into account had not been fully represented when we had, had a grievance.

Bro. W. Baldwin gave his view to the meeting covering the history of the dispute the fact that we were a Mixed Traction type depot and we were covered by that class of depots restrictions.

Bro. M. Allen asked that he make the following proposal.

That this Branch instructs it Secretary to send a letter of thanks to the E.C. for its backing when members of this branch were locked out. Propesed by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Carney.

There was only one item of L.D.C. business to be put before the meeting that was the new roster which would take effect from the 1^st June 1981 along with the new roster.  

Bro. W. Baldwin then asked the Chairman if we could cancel Branch Standing order No. 17 to allow the meeting more time for Bro. D. Fullick to give his report and present Society long membership awards.

The Chairman then asked Bro. N. Milligan Organising Secretary to present the following member with his long service award and to address the meeting.

Bro. Milligan addressed the meeting by giving a vote of thanks to Bro. C. Taylor for his devotion to the Society. After which Bro. Milligan addressed the meeting giving his opinion of the present stand taken by British Rail management and how we can try to fight it stand. After also informing the meeting as to how he was towards support for this depot’s dispute but we were not the only Branch with problems. After closing the speech Bro. Milligan then handed the meeting to Bro. D. Fullick who addressed the meeting giving his report to this branches dispute. He informed the meeting that it was not A.S.L.E.F.  Policy to condone unofficial strike action, but because of the situation at Tunbridge Wells then he felt that we warranted some support. After a very full  speech from Bro. D. Fullick the Chairman asked if anyone wanted to ask the E.C. member any questions.

Questions were put by Bros. W. Ovenden, W. Baldwin & F. Diplock.

The Chairman asked the meeting to consider bringing the meeting to a close.

That we at this meeting indicate a vote of thanks to Bros. N. Milligan and D. Fullick for attending the meeting. Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. C. Exley. Carried.

The Chairman then asked for any other business as there was not anyu forthcoming he closed the meeting at 13.15

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

   Sunday 28th  June 1981 10.30 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock who opened the meeting. The Secretary of this meeting was Bro. J. Carney, the Assistant Secretary, because the Secretary was away on annual leave. There were three other members present which made a total of five members present.

The minutes of the April Special meeting were read to the meeting there was a lively discussion over the motion 

“That if we at this depot are to lose our Sunday work, then we do not entertain any special openings on Sundays for fuelling of engines or stock workings. We further will not  any longer do any train work on Bank Holidays or undertake to do any loan work.”  

which has now been left for advice from our Head Office. This advice will it is hoped will come when we receive a reply to a letter dated the 5^th June 1981 under the heading of ‘Sunday Workings’. It was felt then brought to the attention of the meeting that the L.D.C. had conducted a ballot over the motion above, and the result of this ballot were disclosed to the meeting and were as follows.

For the motion 21, against 13, not returned or void 7. Total 41 members.

That in the light of the above ballot this branch was in favour of the motion.

That after which the minutes of the April meeting were taken to be a true record of that meeting. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. D. Godden. Carried Unan.

The Chairman then asked the Secretary to read the meeting the minutes of April & May monthly branch meetings.

That the minutes of the April & May minutes were taken as a true record. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin.

The Chairman then asked the Secretary to read the circulars from Head Office. The Secretary mention of the fact that several voting papers had not been filled in and sent to the scruitineer. The Chairman explained to the meeting the reason for this error. This was due to the fact that we had invited Bro. D. Fullick & Bro. N. Milligan to the last meeting and because of this the voting papers had been overlooked. The Secretary 

The only election paper that was applicable to their meeting was for two Society Representatives to the Parliamentary Panel. This Branch meeting felt that as we at this Branch did not have any information about the candidates and therefore it was felt that we could not give our support.

The Secretary drew the attention of the meeting to ASLEF Diaries and Head Offices apparent belief that this branch had only 40 members and not 41. It was then put from the meeting that the Secretary to write to Head Office to inform them of our membership total.

The Chairman asked the Secretary to send to ASLEF the total number of extra diaries which we require at this Branch.

After the above the Chairman asked the L.D.C. Secretary to give his report from District Council. Bro. Allen informed the meeting at the report had been posted at the depot and therefore he gave only synopsis of the District Council Report.

Bro. Allen then ask the if this Branch could ask the Secretary to write to Head Office to complain about the fact that the case of multiple items on circulars which makes the fillings of circulars very difficult.

Bro. M. Allen then gave the L.D.C. report

Chairs at Oxted and the provision of service at that station. Was it possible to have an Oliver Tom water heater to make refreshments.

Health & Safety Hempstead Crossing, guide lines on 20 minutes signing on allowance, compensatory pay on 2 additional day’s holiday, Form Ones, I.U.P. payment Bro J. Norris, Payment of wages on a Thursday when Rest Day before a Good Friday, letter from Mr. P. Parker, annual leave roster 1982.

Joint L.D.C. meeting 28^th May at Norwood, holiday more flexibility between winter/summer, condition of track, cover duties.

Health & Safety, Eridge Forge Farm Crossing, Uckfield, inspection of units & T.W.W. yards.

That ended the L.D.C. report. 

The Chairman then asked the Secretary if he would write to the Head Office to ask if they were going to increase the awards of payment and Resettlement and Redundancy payments. The invention of this request is to bring our Resettlements in line with those awards to the stalwarts and miners.

The Chairman then asked for any other business. The Secretary brought before the meeting the sum and result of the collection held for Bro. M. Lee of Portsmouth Branch who was killed whilst on duty. We at this branch collected £26.00. The Chairman asked the Secretary to send the monies to the fund for the late Bro.

After the above there was no other business the Chairman called the meeting to a close at 12.30.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

   Sunday 16th  August 1981 10.45 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock and there were five members present,  

The minutes of the last meeting were read to the meeting held at the above venue on 28^th June 1981. That the minutes of the last meeting were taken as a true record. Moved by Bro. J. Carney and seconded by Bro. M. Allen.

The Chairman then moved the meeting onto the Head Office Circulars and as these had been posted at the notice board it was decided that would be taken as read. After this the Chairman asked if there were any matters arising from circulars. Bro. J. Carney asked if he could be put forward for any Society courses for L.D.C. Representative as and when the Secretary received any applications.

After this the Chairman he asked the Secretary if there were any items of correspondence to be put before the meeting and if all outstanding items of the same had been dealt with. The Secretary informed the meeting that a total of £31 had been collected for the two members of this society who had died in service and that he was in the course of dispatching two cheques to the respective branches for £15.50 to represent this branch’s donation. The Secretary had no other outstanding items of correspondence.

The Chairman then asked the L.D.C. Secretary to give his L.D.C. report and District Council report. Bro. M. Allen then addressed the meeting with the following

Health & Safety 

Provision of hot water at Oxted, Bro. J. Carney had compared the number of P.N. Breaks at Oxted to East Grinstead which as better facilities and found that more P.N. Breaks were rostered at Oxted. This was now been pressed through L.D.C. channels.

Forge Farm Crossing, Uckfield, T.W.W. yards & Inspection of units.

Annual leave report on progress etc.

Bro. Allen then went on to give a report of District Council and the current thinking at the above meetings in regard to B.R.B. and E.C. thinking and policy.

After Bro. Allen concluded his L.D.C. Report and District Council report he asked the meeting that when the next elections for A.A.D. representative for this area are held that he would like to be nominated from this branch as area candidate.

That Bro. M. Allen of this branch be nominated from this branch to be delegate for A.A.D. 1982. Carried unam.

That upon receipt of the nomination paper for A.A.D. Delegate a meeting be called to endorse the same. Carried.

The Chairman then brought to the attention of the meeting the fact that Bro. M. Allen of this branch had sent a letter to Society H.Q. which he wanted publishing in the Locomotive Journal and that it had yet not been printed.

The Chairman then asked for any other business at which  there was a very lively debate about the worsening condition of the track over which the members of this branch work and the proposed new service to be introduced by October 1981 to help with the ‘Brighton Line’ re-signalling scheme. The train which the members of this branch work are all to be re-routed into London Bridge and it was pointed out that we would lose route knowledge into Victoria station.

After the above debate the Chairman asked for any other business as there was not any forth coming he closed the meeting at 12.30.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

   Sunday 18th  October 1981

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station 

The Chairman opened the meeting and welcome all for attending and also apologised for the absence of the Secretary who had telephoned him earlier to say that he was unwell. He asked Bro. J. Carney to take over as Secretary and in the absence of the minute book there were held over until the next meeting.

The Chairman then moved onto Head Office circular which he ask the meeting if they could be taken as read.

Moved from the chair and unopposed that all circulars from the last meeting until this be taken as read. Carried. 

The Chairman then brought to attention of the meeting the contents of circular 169/1981 –Cuts in service and asked the meeting for its comments.

Bro. M. Allen who spoke for the whole of the members present said that this Branch was in agreement with paragraph 9 of the above circular but did not want any worsen of our Condition of Services and asked the meeting to instruct the Secretary to write to Head Office with this view in mind. 

That the Secretary write to Head Office and point to the E.C. that we would like to see a joint approach by all the Railway Trade Unions to prevent any further cuts in services and to try to find any further reduction in expenses in other areas of railway operations. Moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Carney. Carried.

The Chairman then ask the meeting to consider the contents of circular 171/1981 – Cut in Service day of action, he asked the meeting to consider the following. That E.C. Resolution No.2556/330 which is mentioned in the above circular should have been used on the 1^st January 1981 when the first cuts were enacted and not well after many more similar cuts in services. It would appear from E.C. action that our Society only seem to protect the larger depot and not the small depots like ourselves.

The we at this depot were disappointed that cuts in service of the train service which we at this depot work were severed and yet when a threat of s loss some inter city services from Waterloo was moved that we should be expected to support strike action. Moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. L. Stephenson.

The Chairman then congratulated Bro. M. Allen on is letter in the Locomotive Journal.

The Chairman then asked the L.D.C. on behalf of the Branch Membership to persue with whatever bodies available the reinstatement of the Sunday Service. Replying for the L.D.C., Bro. M. Allen informed the meeting that he was in contact with the East Sussex Travellers Association and he was preparing a plan.

The Chairman then moved before the meeting the circular which requested nominations for A.A.D. delegates and the request from Bro. M. Allen of this Branch who desire it was to attend the A.A.D.

That Bro. Aleen of this Branch be nominated be district 40 delegate. Proposed by Bro. R. Macdonald and seconded by Bro. L. Stephenson.

As the Assistant Secretary was acting on behalf of the Secretary, Bro. Allen asked that endorse the voting paper and then asked the Secretary to counter sign it make the paper right for the Scruitineer.

The Chairman then moved to a letter from Bro. Plaine of Brighton Branch and district 40 delegate for conference 1981, which contained a list of the motion and minutes of the A.A.D. conference. It was asked that this be made available in the notice board at the depot.

The Chairman then moved the meeting to L.D.C. nominations for 2 years from 1982 and informed that Bro J. Carney and Bro. D. Godden were due to retire from the L.D.C. Bro. Carney had expressed the wish to continue on the L.D.C. but Bro. Godden wanted not to be nominated. This left one vacancy position. The Chairman asked if there were any applications. Bro. G. Brown expressed the wish that he be on the L.D.C.

That Bro. G. Brown be nominated as L.D.C. member for this branch. Proposer Bro R. Macdonald and seconder by Bro. L. Stephenson. As there were no further applicants the motion was votesd on and For the motion 4 & against 0. Motion Carried.

That Bro. J. Carney be nominated as L.D.C. member for this branch. Proposer Bro. M. Allen and seconded Bro. F. Diplock. The motion was voted on and was as follows. For the motion 4 & against 0. Motion carried.

The Chairman then asked Bro. M. Allen L.D.C. Secretary to give his report of L.D.C. items.

Bro. M. Allen addressed the meeting by informing it of the new wallet system for working diagrams that management were to introduce from the 2^nd November, this was supposed to be in line with R.S.N.T. Decision 52, but the management interpretation fell well short of the decision.

The new system was that when a driver booked on duty he collected the wallet and when he completed the duty he returned it. The wallet contained only a copy of the driver’s working diagram and no other guide to assist the drivers neither did it relive the driver of his responsibility to check for alterations or speed restrictions. The L.D.C.had attended a meeting with management to discuss the system and the Motive Power Supervisors at Tunbridge Wells had been in attendance at the meeting. At this meeting the L.D.C. had pointed out its short comings.

After a short discussion Bro. Allen then moved onto other L.D.C.items.

Extra 10 minutes booking on allowance until January 1982 on duties going to London Bridge station.

Permanent Alterations – Staff to get an extra 10 minutes booking on time – declined by management.

Payment of wages – payment of wage when Good Friday in the week. Pay to made available on Wednesdays.

New workings – with the introduction of the new service to London Bridge this depot had gained 4 new trips to London.

Sunday service – Brighton and Redhill depots working train services down the East Grinstead line and the very poor standard of duty because of the need for men from the depots to the point of the service.

Travel Groups – the East Sussex Travellers Association were trying to get a bus service from Brighton to Uckfield that would connect with the train service to provide a service to London.

Speed Restrictions – the amount of speed restrictions imposed on the Hurst Green to Uckfield line

New Services – proposal or rumour of East Grinstead to Charing Cross service.

Amended Christmas – 28^th as a New Bank Holiday and the provision of Sunday service.

Rest Day working 50% application declined by management.

Oxted line reply, T.W.W. route knowledge meeting to be arranged, condition of track awaiting engineers report. 

Health & Safety

Shed road T.W.W., Hempstead Crossing, D.E.M.U. radiators anti freeze, timing of trains from Eridge to T.W.W., fire blanket, cable clips in tunnels, slipping of leaves.

L.D.C.

Strengthening of 07.23 Uckfield to London Bridge, Oliver Tom at Oxted, 18:00 hours man on Saturday, overtime because of South Eastern traffic & Compensation Leave to be sent to list clerk.

That concluded L.D.C report

The Chairman then asked for any other business as there was non he closed the meeting 13.13.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

 Sunday 22^nd  November 1981 10.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock and there were 8 members present,

The minutes of the previous; the meeting held on 16^th August 1981 and the meeting held on 18^th October 1981.

That the minutes of the August and October meeting be a true record. Moved by Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. J. Norris. Carried.

The Chairman then informed the meeting that he would not be standing for Branch Officer from the December meeting. Bro. W. Baldwin also mention that he would not be standing for Branch Officer. This was noted by the Assistant Secretary who mentioned that he had been informed by the Branch Secretary, Bro. C. Exley that he did not wish to stand for Branch Officer after the December meeting.

The circulars were then moved by the Chairman to be taken as read and this was unopposed. That the circular for this meeting be taken as read. Carried.

One circular was brought to the attention of this meeting which was about Society schools in March 1982 and Bro Norris made us known that he would like to be nominated and as no one else made it known it was moved. That Bro. J. Norris be Tunbridge Wells West nominee for the Society school at Dorking in March 1982. Moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. A. Young.

It was then mention that as the voting papers did not have to be returned until January 1982. If Bro. J. Norris was interested in any of the Branch Office positions it would help him to get on the list of them going to the school. It was then moved. That the nomination paper be held over to the December meeting. Moved Bro. M. Allen and seconded by Bro. A. Young. Carried.

As there were no other matters arising from either circulars or correspondence the Chairman moved on.

Bro. J. Norris asked; as the line between Tunbridge Wells West to Uckfield and up to Oxted were to be closed for four days over the Christmas, would the L.D.C. ask management if the line was to searched before the line was reopened again, also what was going to happen to the units at Tunbridge Wells West will they be started?

The L.D.C. Secretary Bro. M. Allen replied, by saying that this was to be noted and dealt with in the normal channels.

Bro. M. Allen then asked the Chairman if any correspondence of T.U.C. delegates nomination papers been received by this branch. The Chairman replied and said to date he had not seen any but could be at Bro. C. Exley’s house or still in the post. Bro. M. Allen then said that he would be interested on being a delegate on the T.U.C. It was then moved. That Bro. M. Allen be this Branch’s nominee for delegate to the T.U.C. 1982. Moved by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded Bro. L. Stevens 

The Chairman then brought to the attention of all, that the L.D.C. had a letter confirming Bro. A. Young accommodation  move to St. Leonards depot as from Monday 23^rd November 1981 and this branch would like to express a thank you for all the hard work put into the depot and as a L.D.C. Rep. and we as a depot wish him well at his new depot.

That this branch gives a vote of thanks to Bro. A. Young for all the good work he has done at the depot and as a L.D.C. Rep. and we wish him well at his new depot.

District Report.

The E.C. resolutions over cuts in service weas brought up and Bro Fullick was asked why this was not implement, he reply was that the E.C. was going to see the Transport Minister over this.

39 hour week which was deferred , with the E.C. trying to get an extra rest day.

The making of one union within the railway which needed 5/6ths of the A.A.D. of each unions to agree, but T.S.S.A. has dropped out.

Management re allocation of work will mean that the A.D.M. within the Central Division will increase from 3 to 7.

District Manager from 14 to 24 with Assistants

L.D.C. Report

Bro. M. Allen gave a brief description of a Sunday service that the East Sussex Travellers Association had asked for.

It was mention about Bro. R. Brown off sick over same complaint as last year.

L.D.C. has asked management a day to bring up to date the two new L.D.C. members ad to explain the work done so far at the depot.

London Bridge to East Grinstead on Sunday worked by Redhilll men.

The Chairman then thanked the L.D.C.  Secretary for and asked for any other business as none came forward the meeting was closes. Meeting closed at 12.30 p.m.

Tunbridge Wells Meeting

Sunday 20^th  December 1981 10.00 a.m.

at the Welfare Rooms Tunbridge Wells Central Station

The Chairman was Bro. F. Diplock and there were 5 members present,

The minutes of the last meeting held on Sunday 22^nd December 1981. After they were read  the meeting was asked that the minutes were a true record of the meeting. That the minutes of the November meeting of this branch. Moved Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. J. Carney.

At this point Bro. Allen aked the meeting to note that this branch had not received the voting paper to vote for nomination to T.U.C. Conference and he asked the Secretary if this branch had received the paper.

The Secretary informed the meeting that he had not received any such circular and he had know knowledge of ever having received any such circular.

Bro. Allen asked through the Chai that the Secretary be instructed to write to Head Office  to inform Head Office of this fact that we at this branch had not received the nomination voting paper. The Chairman ratified this request and expressed his disappointment at this loss but he noted that Bro. Allen was nominated and that we at this branch would give our support to him in his attempt to a hind.

The Chairman then asked that the meeting take the circulars as read as they had been posted on the notice board.

The Chairman then asked the meeting to confirm the election of Branch Officers.

Bro. F. Diplock past years Chairman asked the meeting to note that he intended to stand down as Branch Chairman at the year end and Bro. C. Exley also asked the meeting to note that he was intending to standing down as Branch Secretary but he was prepare to still take an active part in Branch affairs.

The first position for consideration is the post of Chairman.

That Bro. C. Exley be elected Chairman of the Tunbridge Wells Branch for 1982.

Proposed by Bro. W. Baldwin and seconded by Bro. F. Diplock.

A vote was called and it was unanimous in favour of Bro. C. Exley.

That Bro. C. Exley having been voted to position of Chairman be accepted in that post.

The next vote was for the position of Vice Chairman.

Bro. J. Carney informed the meeting that Bro. G. Ellard had expressed a desire to carry out this position.

That Bro. G. Ellard be elected to the post of vice Chairman for 1982. Proposed by Bro. J. Carney and seconded Bro. M. Allen.

A vote was held and it was unanimous in favour of Bro. G. Ellard.

That Bro. G. Ellard was duly adopted as vice chairman.

 The next position was for Branch Secretary.

That Bro. J. Carney be elected to the post of Branch Secretary. Proposed by Bro. C. Exley and seconded by Bro. W. Baldwin.

A vote was held and it was unanimous in favour of Bro. J. Carney..

That Bro. J. Carney be adopted as Branch Secretary.