A MOVE to reduce the age at which train drivers can start training from 20 to 18 have been welcomed by the trade union Aslef, with legislation to be brought before Parliament tomorrow.

Aslef general secretary Dave Calfe said his union had been campaigning for the change, adding: “This decision … will increase diversity in the driver’s cab by encouraging more young people from all communities to drive trains on Britain’s railways.

“At the moment many young people make their career choice at 18 and the industry misses out, as the current minimum age is 20.

“It offers young people the opportunity of secure employment — to get a job in a highly unionised industry with good pay, and good terms and conditions, in contrast to the short-term and insecure jobs in the gig economy.”

Aslef said reducing the age brings it into line with London Tube train drivers and with other European countries such as Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

Rob Kitley, chairman of Aslef’s young members’ committee and a driver with GWR, said: “By widening the goalposts to allow younger candidates to join the driving grade, we open the door to new talent which may otherwise have been lost.”