HC Deb 24 March 1999 vol 328 cc248-9W
Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will place in the Library a copy of(a) the job description, (b) the contract, (c) the terms of reference and (d) the letter of appointment of the new Chairman of the British Railways Board. [78344]

Dr. Reid

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is already required by statute to lay before each House a statement of the salary, any allowances, and any pension arrangements of British Railways Board Members, as soon as possible after they are first appointed. In the case of the new Chairman, he will at the same time place copies of the job description, contract and letter of appointment in the Library of each House. The Chairman's terms of reference will be reflected in new formal objectives for the British Railways Board, to be published in due course.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what functions the Chairman of the British Railways Board will have between 1 April and the establishment through legislation of a Strategic Rail Authority other than those functions which presently are performed by the Chairman of the British Railways Board; what budget will be available to him; and if he will make a statement. [78261]

Dr. Reid

The Chairman will lead the shadow Strategic Rail Authority (SRA), working with the new Franchising Director to develop a shadow SRA capability. He will advise Ministers on the strategic development of the railway network within our integrated transport policy, including advice on galvanising investment and on franchising issues. The Government have set a budget of £93 million for the British Railways Board in 1999–2000.

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