Southern rail strike enters second day as RMT workers 'stand solid, determined and united'

Commuters have faced another day of travel chaos as workers on the Southern rail network stage the second day of the 48-hour strike. The RMT union staged the walkout as part of an ongoing dispute with the train line over changes to the roles of conductors.

The union threatened further strikes could take place as their members "stand solid, determined and united" on the second day of strike action. The RMT said plans to move the responsibility for closing train doors at stations to drivers from conductors will impact the safety of their workers.

Southern said that around 60% of its planned services would run during the walkout.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: "RMT members on Southern stand solid, determined and united again this morning on the second day of this phase of strike action.

"Our message that rail safety and access to transport services has to be put before the profits of Govia Thameslink is ringing out loud and clear.

"The union thanks the travelling public for their understanding and support as we stand up against this failing and greedy rail operator in defence of the safety of passengers and staff alike. Southern is a train operator that has chosen to declare war on both fare-payers and the workforce. Our message to rail users across the Southern network is clear: 'Our fight is your fight'. "

Southern passenger services director Alex Foulds said: "Passengers will be rightly dismayed that the RMT has chosen to disrupt services yet again. This two-day strike will achieve nothing. After many months of trying to reach agreement with the RMT, we are now moving forward with our plans for the benefit of customers and we urge the RMT to join us in putting passengers first.

"We have guaranteed all our onboard staff a job until the end of the franchise, with no reduction in salary. Our plans are safe, and will mean fewer cancelled trains. We are sorry that our passengers will once again suffer because of RMT intransigence, and we urge the union to work with us to find a sensible way forward."