Organisation: The Football Association

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Analysis and commentary by Echo Research.

Despite hailing New Year Tube strike "a success"(bbc.co.uk, 1/1/06), the RMT union must have been disappointed by its limited impact on London's celebrations. Rather than the predicted turmoil, " London Tube strike deadlock leaves revellers facing chaos"(Edinburgh Evening News, 31/1205), Ken Livingstone referred to the industrial action as a "non event"(Scotsman, 1/1/06). London Underground bosses praised staff for their "their commitment to public service by providing a good service on all lines throughout the night"(bbc.co.uk, 1/1/06), while Mr Livingstone asserted that "The majority of London Underground staff did not agree that it made sense to punish ordinary Londoners on New Year's Eve"(Daily Telegraph, 2/1/06).

Little, it appeared could dampen Londoners' commitment to welcome the New Year, with crowds of 200,000 celebrating in the capital, 50,000 more than last year. "Londoners defy Tube strike to hail New Year"(Reuters, 1/1/06). The Sunday Times also pointed out that RMT boss Bob Crow, "suffered no personal inconvenience: he was sunning himself in a Red Sea resort"(Sunday Times, 1/1/06).

However, the appreciation that London Underground's customers may have felt on Saturday night, is likely to be short-lived as the impact of substantial fare increases hit home. " 'Eye-watering' rail fare rises greet returning commuters"(Daily Telegraph, 3/1/06).