Media centre

Monday 17 Jul 2006

NETWORK RAIL RESPONDS TO CONSERVATIVES’ REVIEW OF RAIL POLICY

Region & Route:

National

Speaking in response to the Conservative Party’s review, Network Rail Chief Executive John Armitt, said: "We look forward to playing a constructive part in the Conservative Party’s review of its rail policy. "We have, for some time, recognised the importance of increased integration within the rail industry, which is why we have worked with our partners, the train and freight operating companies, to introduce integrated control centres, and to produce joint performance improvements plans, and usage strategies for each route. "And these measures are working. Punctuality is improving and costs are being brought down; delays have been reduced by 28% and efficiency savings of more than 20% have been achieved since Network Rail took over the network in October 2002. We are confident of further improvements within the current structure, and it is therefore difficult to see what could be achieved by a fundamental restructure of the industry with the upheaval and uncertainty that would result. "The Conservatives’ review does afford an opportunity to examine many strategic issues in the rail industry, such as the need for increased capacity on the rail network and the case for a new north-south high speed line, and we will very much value the opportunity to engage with the party and produce policies that will best deliver a better railway network with even better punctuality, lower costs and greater capacity."