By definition there must be at least two sides to every dispute. But we're really struggling to find empathy with the Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) union after it broke ranks with other unions to insist on shutting down most of the tube network until Thursday. Next week they will cripple the tube again, if there's no agreement.
The strength of the RMT argument doesn't seem to be making much headway in the media yet - particularly to those taking hours to get home this evening as a result, cramming the bus network, DLR and overland or reverting to the trusty bike or - gasp - walking.
Tomorrow, if you can't make it to work then you might consider tootling along the jubilee line (which should be operating) to Westminster station. The RMT are holding a rally outside the Department for Transport a few minutes walk away - and Bob Crow, the strikingly untimid RMT general secretary, will be there to talk to any media that will listen. Fancy going to hear the case of the strikers, or indeed to put your own points to Bob himself? Pop along from 11.30am - the address to tap into your GoogleMap is Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street, London SW1 4D.
If you wish to express support for the RMT at this time, you could always buy one of their new silk ties. We recommend not wearing it at rush hour the next few days.
Image taken from Maciej Zagozda's flickrstream
