As Kent commuters affected by industrial action on the Tube struggle into work today, bosses have called for tougher rules on strikes.

The CBI, which represents dozens of firms in the county, says the law should be strengthened to ensure if strikes occur, there is minimal disruption to business and the public.

Warning that public sector strikes could increase following Government spending cuts, it says industrial action should only go ahead if 40 per cent of balloted members vote in favour of action. In some recent ballots, only a small number of members have voted.

If a strike is called, the CBI wants companies to continue trading by hiring agency staff to cover. Under the current law, firms can recruit temps directly, but not via an agency.

While strike action has become increasingly rare, especially in the private sector where 85 per cent do not belong to a trade union, the CBI claims public attitudes have hardened and there is an expectation that services will continue through any industrial action.

John Cridland, CBI deputy director-general, said: "Strikes should always be the last resort and in most cases common sense prevails and negotiation wins the day. Industrial action is never inevitable, and we want to see public sector managers and unions going the extra mile during the difficult times ahead. By constructively working together damaging industrial action can be avoided."

He added: "While workers have the legal right to withdraw their labour, employers have a responsibility to run their businesses. The public increasingly expects it to be business as usual, even during a strike, so firms must be allowed to hire temps directly from an agency to provide emergency cover for striking workers."