Rail strike stops 40% of journeys

8:18pm Tuesday 7th October 2008

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A strike hit Scotland's rail network causing travel misery for thousands of commuters.

Travellers all over the country suffered disruption as about 40% of journeys were cancelled when signallers walked out at noon.

Commuters faced cancellations and delays as they made their way home on Tuesday, which are set to continue in the rush-hour on Wednesday morning.

It is the first of two 24-hour strikes planned this week in a dispute over staff rosters and transfers, and will run until 12pm on Wednesday.

The second strike will start at noon on Thursday, stretching the action out over four days.

The Rail Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, which called the strike, said it is "rock solid", adding: "Our signallers are united."

Network Rail said 45% of its signal boxes were still operating.

There was hope Thursday's strike would be called off with the announcement earlier on Tuesday of fresh talks.

The RMT and rail chiefs will meet on Wednesday afternoon in Glasgow, with conciliation service Acas mediating.

David Simpson, Network Rail route director for Scotland, said: "It is encouraging that the RMT has agreed to get around the table again but we call on them to suspend Thursday's strike while we try and find a peaceful resolution."

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