BUSINESSES' RAIL STRIKES WARNING DISASTROUS

Firms say walkout that will affect 90% of services is 'perfect storm

- CHRIS MCCALL

THE economy will face a "perfect storm" if national rail strikes go ahead next week, business leaders have warned.

ScotRail and cross-border train operators will cut 90 per cent of services on three separate days, with thousands of railway workers planning to walk out in a dispute over staffing.

There will be no trains north or south of the central belt on June 21, 23 and 25, unless a deal can be reached between the RMT union and Network Rail.

Even on routes kept open, there will be no services before 7.30am and none after 6.30pm.

It will be the biggest rail strike since 1992.

Industry leaders yesterday warned the economic impact could be devastating at a time of year many Scots are heading off on holidays.

Passengers heading to the Royal Highland Show at Ingliston or the Barry Manilow concert at the Hydro in Glasgow could be affected by the strike.