Rail strikes ‘devastating’ say hospitality chiefs
Pubs and other hospitality firms have said a series of rail strikes before Christmas will have a "devastating" impact for struggling firms.
More than 40,000 members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union across Network Rail and 14 train operating companies will strike on December 13, 14, 16 and 17 and on January 3, 4, 6 and 7, it was announced on Tuesday.
Union general secretary Mick Lynch apologised to the public for the inconvenience but urged them to "to direct your anger and frustration at the Government and railway employers".
Firms and industry groups have called for an urgent resolution to the proposed strikes, which would take place on key days for Christmas celebrations.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive for the Ukhospitality trade body, said: "Continued rail strikes have had a huge impactonourhospitalitysector, meaning a huge drop in sales across the sector.”