Talks between the Rail, Maritime and Transport union and Southern rail have broken down, prompting a threat of another strike.

Acas has confirmed yesterday’s discussions ended without an agreement and that there are no plans to resume talks today (Wednesday, February 15).

The union has already warned of further strikes, in addition to the 28 staged over the last 10 months, if the dispute is not settled.

Southern’s parent company Govia Thameslink (GTR) said it had hoped to end the long-running row over the role of guards.

The RMT’s general secretary Mick Cash said the rail operator had blocked serious negotiations.

He said: "RMT entered today's talks in good faith but it soon became clear that the only thing Southern were interested in was bulldozing through driver only operation further and faster with safety and access to services not even on their agenda.

“This is dire news not just for staff but for passengers who rightly demand a safe, reliable and accessible service. I will now take a full report back to the union’s executive.”

Got a story? Email sean.morrison@london.newsquest.co.uk