§ 17. Mr. WhittingdaleTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what evidence he has from previous privatisations of transport industries that passengers will benefit from the privatisation of British Rail.
§ Mr. FreemanBritish Airways has been transformed into one of the world's leading airlines since privatisation, with passengers benefiting from its innovative approach and commitment to high standards of service which regularly win international awards.
The privatisation of bus companies has resulted in great efficiency, more choice, more bus miles, innovative services and lower cost to the taxpayer.
The best way to achieve our obective of improving the quality of service for rail users is to give the private sector similar opportunities to provide existing, and new, rail services.