A free afternoon newspaper is one step closer for Tube commuters after the launch of a tender for the publication.

On Monday Transport for London (TfL) started the tender process for the afternoon distribution slot on the London Underground (LU).

The Metro will still be available for free in the morning. Its publishers, Associated Newspapers, recently gave up its exclusive right to Tube distribution later in the day.

Bidders for the new slot are thought to include News International (owners of The Times and The Sun), Express Newspapers and Guardian Newspapers.

Associated launched the Standard Lite, a free version of the Evening Standard, in 2004 to ward off the competition.

City AM, a new specialist publication, are also dished out by hand outside stations and leading City companies.

Richard Parry, a LU director, said the tender was "good news" for Londoners.

"This tender means not just more choice for passengers on the Tube. Any additional money generated from a new contract will be invested into London's transport system driven by TfL's £10bn five-year investment programme.

Publishers have until April 21 to register their interest.