Wildcat strike threat on the Tube

The cans were found at Farringdon Tube station

Tube workers are threatening wildcat strikes in support of eight maintenance workers sacked after empty beer cans were found in a mess room.

Members of the Rail Maritime and Transport (RMT) union are being formally balloted over taking action.

But leaflets circulated among workers warn of unofficial stoppages which would cause travel chaos.

Metronet, which employs the men, said they were sacked because of its "robust" policy on drink and drugs.

Empty brandy and wine bottles and cans of lager and cider were found in a fridge, cooker and in a loft above the room at Farringdon Tube station.

The calling for wildcat strike action is illegal Metronet spokeswoman

The leaflet reads: "Following the disgraceful sackings of our infrastructure colleagues we are calling on all drivers to show support and solidarity.

"The anti-trade union laws prohibit secondary picketing so we will have no other option but to refuse to work on the grounds of health and safety."

The leaflet bears the slogan "Back To 89", a reference to a series of wildcat strikes on the Tube in 1989 which crippled services.

A Metronet spokeswoman said: "The calling for wildcat strike action is illegal.

"The official ballot is ongoing, the appeal process has not been exhausted and we don't feel there is widespread support for strike action."

A spokeswoman for London Underground (LU) said: "This is a dispute between Metronet and their workers.

"We will continue to look to our employees to do their jobs because this dispute is not with LU."

The RMT ballot result is expected early next month and officials believe there will be overwhelming support for strikes.