Aslef chief accused of watching porn

A rail union chief today faces the sack, accused of watching hardcore pornography on an office computer.

A second charge against Mick Blackburn, deputy general secretary of Aslef, the train drivers' union, relates to an alleged forged reference used by a relative to obtain work at the union.

Mr Blackburn is forbidden by the union to comment on today's disciplinary hearing, conducted by the controlling executive committee at Aslef 's headquarters in Hampstead. But a supporter said: "Mick denies the accusations and will rigorously defend himself." If disciplined or sacked, Mr Blackburn will launch an appeal.

Both Mr Blackburn and Shaun Brady, Aslef 's general secretary, are suspended from duty following a brawl at a barbecue held in the garden of a union owned property in May.

Mr Brady also faces dismissal when he appears before the committee for his disciplinary hearing next month.