East Midlands Trains strike threat decision to be made

The union representing East Midlands Trains drivers is expected to decide later whether to strike over three days during the Olympic games.

Aslef has scheduled industrial action for 6-8 August in a row over pension contribution cuts.

Rail operators said they been in "progressive talks" with Aslef since Friday to try and call off the strikes.

The train drivers' union said it has been discussing revised proposals by East Midlands Trains.

As negotiations continue, the rail company believes it had "addressed the outstanding point raised by the union on the additional pensions benefits proposal and feel we have a way forward".

Last month, two strike dates were suspended to allow discussions to continue.

Aslef had said previous talks with East Midlands Trains failed to produce a breakthrough.

Its members oppose the firm's plans to reduce both its own and staff contributions to its pension fund from July.

The train operator had said in June that the change would leave drivers £500 a year better off without affecting pension benefits.