RMT warns of axed services as train operators are given green light to scrap unprofitable routes in new franchise plan

RAIL UNION RMT warned today that new franchise plans, smuggled out by the Government in a barrage of ministerial announcements yesterday, will give train operators 'flexibility' to axe services, cut train capacity and frequencies and stop at fewer stations in order to maximise profits. RMT is describing the plan as a 'blueprint for a new round of Beeching-style cuts to the UK's rail services.'