On 27 Sep, 09:18, John B wrote:
If, as it sounds, the defect in question doesn't prevent the DMH from
operating (i.e. your asleep/dead driver will still let go of it and
the train will still stop), how does this have even the pretence of a
safety issue?

Basically, there is no safety issue. These trains have been in service
for nearly 40 years, so statistically the chance of an incident
occurring is pretty minimal. If there were concerns, implement double
manning until assurances could be made. Certainly any minute risk is
easily outweighed by the risks associated with overcrowding.

This issue is all about train operators asserting their authority, and
IMO they should be ashamed of themselves for inconveniencing and
potentially endangering passengers for no good reason.