§ Mr. BurgonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to appoint a new Chairman for British Waterways; and if he will make a statement. [87636]
§ Mr. MealeDr. George Greener, ex-group chief executive, Hillsdown Holdings, will succeed Bernard Henderson as Chairman of British Waterways (BW) on 10 July. The appointment will be for three years.
The new Chairman's main priority will be to steer BW in its new direction following my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister's announcement on 18 February about the Government's decision on the future status and direction for BW. Dr. Greener will need to ensure that BW develops successful and innovative partnerships with the public, private and voluntary sectors and maximises its contribution towards the Government's objectives for transport, regeneration, conservation and amenity.
Dr. Greener's strong commercial background and previous experience of strategic leadership will be invaluable at what is a significant time for BW. He will continue to hold a small number of non executive directorships.
I would like to acknowledge the commitment and enthusiasm Bernard Henderson has brought to BW over the past five years and the important contribution he has made during the Government's review of options for the future of BW.
I am issuing a news release today announcing Dr. Greener's appointment.