Troubles on the Tube

A strike by London Underground staff led to serious disruption on Monday, leaving tens of thousands of people stranded.

According to the website of Transport for London, the company responsible for much of the capital's public transport, train traffic has been halted at almost all central stations.

The strike has been called by the RMT union, which is protesting against a government proposal to sack 600 staff and proposed changes to its employment and pension contracts. The strike is due to last until Tuesday morning.

Transport for London's website is advising people to give up travel that is not vital. It is worth noting that The Daily Telegraph posted pictures of huge queues at bus stops.

The situation is complicated by the fact that many Britons are returning home on Monday after a long weekend announced to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. With hundreds of flights cancelled in recent days, many have had to postpone their return to the beginning of the working week.

The situation is no better for those who choose to use rail transport. Passengers returning from France on Eurostar trains have faced delays due to electricity problems near Paris, according to Sky News television.