Everything will get much better... soon, promises Byers
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.When Tony Blair told Stephen Byers that he was moving to Transport from the DTI, this most Blairite of Blairite ministers thought to himself: "That's interesting." He didn't exactly jump with joy.
Tomorrow he will announce changes in the way new franchises are agreed with train companies. He's called it "a milestone day". "It is the most important lever I've got. Overall the main priority will be to deliver short-term benefits to passengers so they note an improvement very quickly."
John Prescott made a similar claim, but there were no obvious improvements. Mr Byers is still fresh enough not to look perturbed. "I've got a lot more clout than John. I am confident you will see improvements within two or three years."
He has a strong personal interest in trains – he and his partner Jan, who lives in Newcastle, have a commuter relationship. "At the moment the service is substandard and quite unacceptable." Would he say there was a crisis? "Post-Hatfield there was a crisis. There have been some improvements since then."
Occasional frustration permeates the calm demeanour. "I don't have direct control over any of this. I can provide direction, guidance, and have some levers over other bodies that have the control."
In which case why does he not take control over Railtrack by renationalising it? "I can't see it happening." He speaks almost as an observer. A rail analyst might say, "I can't see it happening. The Secretary of State would never do it." But Byers is the Secretary of State. Surely he ought to be the one making things happen? He replies that he won't be rushed into decisions.
He's essence of New Labour. Moderate, hardworking, he clearly wills change for the better. But will he find the right levers to pull? The travelling public will be a stern judge.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments