ASLEF, the labour union representing more than 96% of train drivers, called on its members to a three-day strike. The labour action is planned for Friday, 12 May, Wednesday, 31 May, and Saturday, 3 June 2023, announced ASLEF in an advisory.

In addition, members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) will stage a two-day strike on 12 and 13 May. Multiple rail companies are expected to take part in the strikes, including Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway and West Midlands Trains.

According to ASLEF, workers at these train companies have been in dispute for almost a year. "Most of the drivers have not had a pay increase at all since 2019 and with inflation still well over 10% and the cost of living spiralling, this is not acceptable," said the union.

The strikes are likely to cause nationwide disruptions, and thousands of trains are expected to be cancelled.