Re-nationalisation is a failed model
DEAR Editor, With a few polite words of explanation, Cllr Roger Lawrence Regional Transport Chief, brought into play the latest brand of transport nationalisation (Post, March 23). Lenin will be raising the red flag wherever he is. Mark these words: “Bringing services ‘in house’ will provide the extra flexibility and adaptability needed”.
With these simple yet potent words the successful work of National Express, who have delivered an efficient,effective and affordable service was cast cruelly asunder and the new age of central control and nationalisation of the tram was commenced.
I am sure there are some youngsters out there who will recall previous models of nationalisation. Do you remember the costs too? Prices, jobs, industrial actions, level of service delivery and customer satisfaction levels.
How will this new ‘in house’ model of nationalisation be delivered? Where there was once a ‘fat controller’ we now have an indulgence of committees. How will this new model deliver the tram service and provide robust transparent and accountable affordable service delivery?
Expansion and investment are urgently needed to unlock the potential for growth and improve our quality of life in the region. Will re-nationalisation work? Will we enjoy affordable efficient services. There are lessons in UK history.
It appears we are at risk of literally re inventing the wheel by not learning lessons and by designing progress by centralised committees. Cllr Doug James, Walsall