TRANSPORT AND THE DECISION MAKERS: THE POLITICS OF CHANGE IN BRITAIN AND EUROPE

This paper considers the implications for transport politics of being inextricably linked with general politics at all levels of government, in particular at the European level. The allocation of transport responsibilities, accountability for decisions and sources of influence in Britain are discussed. European decision-making has to take account of many cultural perspectives and influencing decisions may be expensive and time-consuming. The main transport policies at European level are listed including harmonisation, information exchange and the development of trans-European networks. The relationship between European and British transport objectives are considered. Political decisions over transport projects are noted. The implications of current plans to privatise British Rail are discussed and the future direction of British transport policy considered. For the covering abstract of the publication see IRRD 857363.