RAIL UNION RMT has blasted senior Network Rail chiefs as it emerged that they are holding meetings in the five star opulence of Londons Langham Hotel while multi-billion pound cuts have left 1,500 essential safety maintenance staff facing the sack.

The Network Rail board met at the Langham Hotel on Wednesday 2nd December with the job cuts package one of the items under discussion.

The hotel's website it describes itself as a sublime choice among London luxury hotels." and. "impeccable 5-star luxury accommodation stating that .this luxury London hotel is the epitome of elegance and poise".

Bob Crow, RMT general secretary, said:

"While 1500 emergency track maintenance staff face the prospect of being slung on the dole this Christmas, their Network Rail bosses are strutting around in the five star luxury of the Langham Hotel.

"The top bosses at Network Rail are making multi-billion cuts to the rail infrastructure with the maintenance jobs of RMT members in the firing line. At the same time they are paying out wads of cash to enjoy the opulence of the Langham Hotel. Our members are furious and will not take this insult without a real fight."

Interview: GEOFF MARTIN

Camera & Editing: CHRIS KASRILS (less info)