RMT calls fresh strike days in September over driver-only trains
Stoppages planned on Merseyrail, Southern, Arriva North
Rail commuters across England face more strikes when they return from summer holidays next month after a new series of stoppages were announced on Friday.
The walkouts are a continuation of the row over driver-only-operated trains.
Members of the RMT union working for Arriva Rail North, Merseyrail and the Govia Thameslink-owned Southern Rail will walk out from Friday 1 September with the last strike on Monday 4 September.
The RMT said it still had concerns over safety and job loss fears.
Arriva Rail North - which operates under the brand Northern - and Southern workers will walk out on Friday 1 September and Monday 4 September.
Staff at Merseyrail will be on strike on 1, 3 and 4 September.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said the union was “bitterly disappointed” that Southern Rail had rejected its call for round table discussions involving all parties with an interest in resolving the dispute.
“RMT has a clear plan for resolving this dispute but that requires round table talks now to push forwards. This fiasco cannot be allowed to drag on any longer. The union stands ready and waiting for genuine and meaningful talks with all parties and we are pressing (Transport Secretary Chris) Grayling to get his contractors into line as a matter of urgency.”