iStockA further two days of strike action across the UK’s rail network will take place next month.
RMT, which represents rail workers, announced that staff at Network Rail and 14 train operators will strike on August 18 and August 20.
It includes Avanti West Coast and LNER, which run services between Scotland and England.
The union has indicated that around 40,000 workers will be involved in the action.
A 24-hour strike is already planned to take place on July 27.
RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said the union remains open for talks, but that it will continue its campaign until a negotiated settlement is reached.
“The rail industry and the Government need to understand that this dispute will not simply vanish,” he said.
“They need to get serious about providing an offer on pay which helps deal with the cost-of-living crisis, job security for our members and provides good conditions at work.
“Recent proposals from Network Rail fell well short on pay and on safety around maintenance work.
“And the train operating companies have not even made us a pay offer in recent negotiations.
“Now Grant Shapps (transport secretary) has abandoned his forlorn hopes for the job of prime minister, he can now get back to his day job and help sort this mess out.
“We remain open for talks, but we will continue our campaign until we reach a negotiated settlement.”
Andrew Haines, chief executive of Network Rail, said: “By announcing even more strike dates, the RMT has dropped any pretence that this is about reaching a deal.
“It’s clear the best interests of passengers and our staff are taking second place to the union’s bosses’ political campaign.“
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