The postal strike does not appear to have affected any application. Most were quite sporadic.
As for correspondence, the main theme is that London don't make contact with anyone unless it is to request further info. It is rare they send AOR. London CIC/CHC do also appear to be sporadic; some people report smooth sailing, others report nothing but delays. If your case has gone over the 6 month average processing time, contact them and ask what's going on.
I must admit, I have sent 3 emails in three weeks and had a reply to each a week later - albeit they wrote to tell me they had nothing to tell me. Either way, they do appear to respond sometimes so you may be lucky.
Most PPR's have (according to this website and other immigration forums) been requested via e-mail. Remember to check your junk mail.