Metronet

A positive outcome to the collapse of tube maintenance company Metronet came a step closer last month as Transport for London (TfL) made a formal bid to take control. A quick exit from administration was the best way to maintain safe operations, mitigate risks, and continue upgrade and renewal work, TfL said.

Assistant general secretary of the RMT rail union Pat Sikorski described it as “good news for our members, the taxpayer and the traveling public”. Gerry Doherty, general secretary of the TSSA transport union, said it would allow ministers to guarantee a world class tube in place for the Olympic Games, but criticised “outrageous” pay-offs for Metronet bosses. ASLEF rail union hoped it would address concerns about private finance.