Officials from the train company, its security firm Securitas, and the GMB union met at conciliation service Acas's London headquarters to try to reach a settlement.

Debbie Sheen, 37, and Lynn McKay, 35, both from London, have been off work without pay for three weeks since they were escorted from the Eurostar terminal at Waterloo Station for refusing to wear skirts.

The two women said they had always worn trousers to work but were told to wear skirts after the security contract was taken over by Securitas.

However, after day-long talks little progress had been made and one official said the talks had "collapsed".

The union said it would now press ahead preparing employment tribunal cases on behalf of the pair.

Trousers 'comfortable'

The women said trousers were more comfortable and appropriate for their work, which involved screening passengers and searching trains.

Glenda Jackson is backing the women

Both said they refused to be "bullied" by Securitas management after the change of policy.

They were supported by their union and a number of Labour MPs, including London Mayoral hopeful Glenda Jackson.

Eurostar said the women had to wear skirts only in the passenger screening area and could wear trousers in other parts of the terminal.

Securitas is canvassing the views of other security officers on the Eurostar contract and will make a recommendation to Eurostar on the issue.

Eurostar said the measure was introduced to help female customers and female security staff.