Byers appoints new rail chief

Richard Bowker: 'delighted to accept the offer'

Transport Secretary Stephen Byers has appointed Richard Bowker as chairman of the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA).

The 35-year-old co-chairman of Virgin Rail will become one of the most powerful men in the struggle to overhaul the UK's ailing rail industry.

He will replace Sir Alistair Morton, who retires on 14 December.

Mr Bowker will oversee the workings of Britain's rail network, including the operation company being created from Railtrack, which was put into administration earlier this month.

And he will also oversee the publication of the eagerly-awaited strategic plan for the railways expected in the near future.

'Just the person'

"Richard Bowker is just the person for this vital role. He knows the railways well and commands respect in the industry," said Mr Byers.

Mr Bowker will bring "fresh ideas for everything from broad strategy to improving passengers' day to day experiences," he added.

One of the greatest challenges facing Mr Bowker will be to ensure that the new company created from the ashes of Railtrack will deliver the government's goals.

On Tuesday, Mr Byers said the company he was proposing as a replacement for Railtrack would do much to address the current problems in the industry.

The new company is still only at proposal stage, and the government is also keen to encourage bids from private companies to run Britain's rail network.

The transport secretary outlined the priorities of the SRA as follows:

delivering a better deal for passengers

implementing the new Strategic Plan for the industry

growing passenger numbers and the freight market

driving forward the £60bn 10-year investment programme.

Blow to Branson

Mr Bowker's departure is expected to be a blow to Sir Richard Branson, who is understood to have tried to persuade him to stay.

And some rail companies are reportedly worried that the choice could lead to preferential treatment for Virgin.

Mr Bowker's career has focused exclusively on the rail industry, having started out as a development manager responsible for financing with London Underground.

The basic salary has been agreed at £250,000 a year, with the potential for a performance bonus of up to £50,000.