As requested by RMT's campaign committee, I wrote the following letter to Labour Parliamentary candidates in and around London (or at least, the ones I could find email addresses for!):

As you may know, London Underground, under the leadership of Tory Mayor Boris Johnson, plans to cut 800 station staff jobs, and to severely cut ticket office opening hours.

RMT and London Underground's other trade unions strongly oppose this plan, as we believe it will: - endanger passengers - reduce customer service - create unemployment at a time when we should be creating jobs.

I am writing to you to ask your stance on this issue. In particular, I invite you to add your name to this petition, which has already been signed by thousands of people:

We the undersigned oppose London Underground’s plan to cut up to 800 stations jobs and to severely cut ticket office opening hours. We value an open ticket office, and the assistance and safety role of staff.

I am also happy to answer any questions you may have about this issue.

I will be advising RMT members and supporters in your area of your reply to this message.

Yours in solidarity

Janine Booth Secretary RMT London Transport Regional Council

The following candidates have replied giving their support, and adding their names to the petition:

• Tom Miller, Woking
• Sam Gurney, Kensington
• Val Shawcross, Bermondsey and Old Southwark
• Cath Arakelian, Chingford and Woodford Green
• Gerry Ryan, Croydon Central
• Alex Hilton, Chelsea and Fulham