Travelers in the United Kingdom are once again facing a nationwide rail strike today, Bloomberg reports. Trade union leaders are still trying to organize more widespread strikes, and even more professional groups are striking for better pay.

On the fifth day the trains broke down, only a handful of trains were still running, leaving London’s financial district looking deserted during a normal work week. Hence, the strike planned for today could have a major impact on the post-holiday sales of some UK retailers.

Read also | Trade union leaders threaten more coordinated strikes in Britain

In addition, talks with trade unions in the industrial sector appear to be going well today, with action in the sector possibly starting in the coming weeks and months. It involves tens of thousands of public sector workers – such as teachers, firefighters and health workers. Even the newly trained doctors seemed eager to join the strike.

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“We have to maximize our influence and bring together anyone who might be involved in a labor dispute,” said Lynch, who is secretary general of the National Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers’ Union. “That includes the teachers and I think the fire department will be joining us soon.”

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s previous administration has faced a wave of strikes that crippled public services and further hampered the economy, which it says is on a collision course with recession. The Royal Mail, National Health Service and border security, among others, then stopped working, as employees demanded higher wages to better cope with inflation.

Doctors on strike for 72 hours

British doctors also appear to want to join the strike. Yesterday, a union representing recently graduated doctors threatened a possible 72-hour strike in March if members voted to do so. A similar mood awaits teachers in England and Wales, who are also set to resign.

Talks with the railroad union continued Monday, but Lynch has been stubborn about making the breakthrough. Unions are angry with the government’s plan to allow a minimum number of workers to continue working during the strike.

Read also | The strike halted British rail transport

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on the other hand, wished and invited all trade union leaders to the meeting. “I believe that trade unions play a very important role in our society and that they have the freedom to strike whenever they want,” said Sunak. “But I also believe there has to be a balance so workers can live their lives without significant distractions.”