UK rail unions dismiss claim that usage is in decline and cuts are needed

Transport secretary says Covid has changed travel habits' but Aslef cites data showing use above 90% of pre-pandemic levels

Rail unions have dismissed the government's claim that big savings are needed because of a permanent decline in use since the pandemic, citing official data that showed demand creeping above 90% of pre-pandemic levels during some days late last month.

Aslef, the train drivers' union, is demanding a meeting with transport secretary Grant Shapps to discuss the future of the industry, stating that ministers are opting for grandstanding" over an acceptable, gradual plan to modernising the railways.