Train managers at Avanti West Coast are to strike in a dispute over rest day working. Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union plan to walk out on 22, 23 and 29 December. Union members voted overwhelmingly against the company’s proposals. – Guardian

London open The FTSE 100 is expected to open 38 points lower on Wednesday, having closed down 0.86% on Tuesday at 8,280.36.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union will walk out on December 22, 23 and 29

Lord Hendy says the transport department is going to "keep a close watch on staffing" over the festive period.

Many train drivers and other crew members do not have Sunday working included in their contracts, with numerous operators often relying on them volunteering to work extra paid shifts to run timetabled services on that day