Threat of Privatisation - Network Rail

Head Office Circular No. NP/244/15

To the Secretary all Branches,
Council of Executive members,
Regional Councils and Regional Offices


Monday 7 December 2015

Dear Colleagues,

Threat of Privatisation – Network Rail

Network Rail, which is responsible for maintaining the safety of our railways, is threatened with privatisation as part of a review being carried out at this very moment. We know from experience of Network Rail’s predecessor, Railtrack, that privatisation resulted in years of underinvestment and contributed to several rail disasters. We don’t want to repeat the mistakes of the past.

At present Network Rail is in the public sector, which is the best option for ensuring sustainable investment in future and prioritisation of safety.

Please could you email your MP, asking them to write to Nicola Shaw, who is heading up the review into Network Rail, highlighting the concerns about privatisation and lending support for Network Rail to remain in the public sector. This will help ensure safety is put before profits.

Action for Rail have set up the following link to email your MP: http://campaign.actionforrail.org/page/speakout/Safety-Before-Profits

Yours sincerely

 

Mick Cash
General Secretary