The RMT has accused the government of "blocking" rail resolution as thousands of workers walk out in the latest series of strikes.
Thousands of Network Rail and train operating company workers have walked out as part of the ongoing dispute over pay and working conditions. RMT members are holding two 48-hour strikes - today and tomorrow and January 6-7 - after formal negotiations broke down over the Christmas period.
Train drivers in the Aslef union are also striking on January 5 in a dispute over pay. RMT general secretary Mick Lynch yesterday accused the government of "blocking" any attempts to reach a settlement with the striking rail employees.