Transport minister Norman Baker has urged companies to allow staff to work from home as the cold snap and tube strike cause chaos for commuters.

A 'flexible approach towards workers' should be adopted by companies across the country as heavy snow sweeps Britain.

Alongside the adverse weather making travelling into the office far more complicated – and potentially dangerous – the latest in a line of tube strikes makes working from home the sensible option.

Weather forecasters have already predicted more snow showers, with heavy snow predicted for London over the coming few days, as the 'coldest November on record' rages on.

Mr Baker said, “There are many advantages to both businesses and employees for looking at more flexible working arrangements.

“Developing alternatives to the normal nine to five working day would be good for business, good for the individual and good for the environment particularly useful at times of disruption caused by bad weather and strikes.

“This is an agenda supported by both the CBI and TUC. It is smart working, which individuals and businesses are increasingly taking up,” he added.