Reuters reported that global miner Xstrata had met with South Africa National Union of Mineworkers in a bid to end a strike at its coal and alloys operations, but the talks were unsuccessful.

Thousands of workers have been on strike for over a week in protest over an employee share ownership programme.

Mr Songezo Zibi spokesman said "Unfortunately no agreement was reached between the parties and NUM has decided to continue its strike action."

Xstrata last week withdrew its proposed share policy due to the strike and the company said on Monday that the industrial action was now considered illegal and unprotected.

(Sourced from Reuters)