Commuters in London were hit on Tuesday by the first full day of a 72-hour tube strike over the threat to tube workers’ jobs, forced transfers and pensions.

The industrial action, organised by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) is a direct result of Metronet, the tube line maintenance firm going into administration.

Bob Crow, RMT general secretary, said: “It is five weeks since we gave the company notice that we were balloting over the issues involved, yet there was no sense of urgency until it became clear that our members were determined to win the unequivocal guarantees we are seeking.

“Our members have shown their determination by delivering a rock-solid strike and, pending any positive outcome from today’s talks, it will remain on.”

Transport for London has warned that services will not return to normal until Friday morning.