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Tube workers demand extra security
![]() Underground workers are calling for traveling guards to be introduced on Tube trains. SPECIAL REPORTRELATED
LONDON, England (CNN) -- London Underground workers met Mayor Ken Livingstone on Friday to demand urgent security improvements in the aftermath of the July 7 bombings and Thursday's attempted attacks on the Tube network. Bob Crowe, head of the Rail Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, said employees who refused to work because of safety concerns would have the union's full support. "After yesterday's attacks we are also seeking an urgent review of what should happen" in an emergency, said Crowe, who paid tribute to the "professionalism and commitment" of Underground workers who helped evacuate Tube stations after Thursday's failed attacks. "When yesterday's attacks happened we expected the network to be closed down and re-opened once it was deemed safe, as it was two weeks ago. But our members were put under enormous pressure to continue as normal when it was still far from clear what was happening." Crowe said the RMT had been seeking some of the measures under consideration since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. They include introducing guards back onto trains and providing better emergency equipment for Underground staff. "First and foremost, there can be no question of cutting station staff numbers, and the Mayor must ensure that current plans to reduce station staff numbers are dropped. We need to see more staff on stations, not fewer," he said. "We are seeking a commitment to bring guards back to London Underground trains -- a move that will undoubtedly be welcomed by all who use the system. "Our members need more and better training on security and emergency procedures, as well as better equipment, including breathing apparatus for train operators and station supervisors." Livingstone told the UK's Press Association that Underground staff had "performed miracles" to keep Tube services running. "London Underground staff, together with the bus workers, have been outstanding in enabling Londoners to go about their business in these difficult circumstances," he said.
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