Underground to lose 800 jobs

The news was condemned by unions embroiled in a bitter dispute over the loss of 800 ticket office jobs, which has led to a series of Tube strikes and could lead to more disruption next month.

The Tube organisation said it was reviewing all non-frontline services to make sure it becomes more efficient.

It said it had started consulting with unions over "necessary changes" to non-operational functions.

In a statement, it said: "LU is reviewing all non-frontline services to ensure the right levels of resources are in place, and to protect the twin priorities of delivering excellent daily customer service and the Tube investment programme, so vital to support the economy and growth of London and the UK.

"The review will reflect recent changes which have led to reductions in activity in some back-office areas, such as the changes in the formal contractual arrangements following the acquisition of Tube Lines.

"Customer-facing and frontline roles, such as train operators, station and maintenance staff, are not affected."