Snow chaos fines expected

Private sector maintenance companies who caused travel chaos for Tube commuters during the snow two weeks ago could be fined £1 million.

The two consortia, Metronet and Tube Lines, are both accused of poor performance because they did not take adequate precautions against the bad weather.

London Underground's director of safety, Mike Strzelecki, admitted fines could reach as much as £1 million.

Bobby Law, London district secretary of the RMT, largest of the Tube unions, said the fines were not enough.

"With the vast profits these companies will be making they will be able to take £1 million out of petty cash."