Post strikes cost London £304m

Post strikes have "crippled" businesses in London and cost the capital's economy about £304 million, company directors said today.

Four out of five London directors said the spate of 24-hour stoppages had had a negative impact on their businesses.

Nearly half - 45 per cent - calculated the strikes had cost their firms £1,000 or more so far. Three-quarters reported cashflow and payment problems, while 64 per cent were paying more for alternative services.

London Chamber of Commerce chief Colin Stanbridge said: "Industrial action is clearly crippling businesses."

More wildcat strikes today threatened any possible peace deal.