Bob Wood wrote...
>From The Times
>May 24, 2007
>
>Government considers £1bn sale of waterways
Robin Evans of BW has issued a statement about the Times article today.
"....Government has asked BW to consider and investigate whether
BW’s current institutional form and financial structure are optimal
for the long-term security and success of BW’s inland waterways, or
whether alternative
options might better achieve this.
"To do this we are seeking expert advice and so we have put a brief
out to a wide range of business consultants. To carry weight in any
subsequent policy discussions we decided that the brief needed to
consider the full range of possible options for British Waterways. For
example these could include the status quo with a long term Government
funding contract or a more contemporary structure within the public
sector. It is very important to emphasise that it is not the policy of
the Board or of Government to privatise British Waterways.
"We are currently at the tender stage of the review, and so I expect
to be able to appoint specialist advisors during the summer. Their
report will take time to prepare, and I don’t expect this to be
completed before the end of 2007.
"If the Review recommends any changes to BW’s current structure it
will be for the Board and Government to consider whether any such
changes are desirable and feasible. In doing so, it would, I am sure,
conduct public consultation.
"The review seeks to continue the success of British Waterways and
the renaissance of the canals and rivers we care for. As the review
takes shape I will keep you up to date on the progress and we will be
working with Government to make sure it helps us secure the long term
future of the waterways for public benefit."
--
Martin Clark
Internet Boaters' Database http://www.boaterweb.co.uk
Pennine Waterways Website http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk
