Chancellor refuses to back down on Tube PPP plan
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Gordon Brown, the Chancellor, defied his critics yesterday when he refused to water down his commitment to the controversial public-private partnership (PPP) for London Underground.
Stephen Byers, the Secretary of State for Transport, revealed earlier this month that the Government was considering alternatives in case the PPP option turned out not to offer value for money. But the Chancellor, whose department has been the driving force behind the plan, told council chiefs that he was "convinced" of its merits.
Speaking to the Local Government Association in London, Mr Brown said the Government would "continue our programme of public-private partnerships.
"Whether it be in the London Underground or in the building of new hospitals, I am convinced that instead of the old, sterile divide which pitted public against private, we do best when public and private sectors work together to enhance investment in our transport and infrastructure," he said.
Under the PPP scheme ownership of the Tube would remain in public hands, but commercial companies would operate services. Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, has argued it would undermine safety by fragmenting control of the network.
Mr Brown's defence of the scheme was part of an impassioned message of commitment to Britain's public services, including a promise to devolve more power from Whitehall to local authorities. Financial support would be granted to allow them to modernise public services, in return for their willingness to work with the private sector.
Mr Brown said he believed in "radical options" and also held out the prospect of local revenue-raising schemes such as congestion charging being started across the country.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments