British Transport Police Authority

Simon Burns Excerpts

Monday 25th March 2013 Written Statements

[The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Mr Simon Burns)]

We will shortly commence a triennial review of the British Transport Police Authority (BTPA). The BTPA oversees the operation of the British transport police, set its targets, and allocates funding for its budget.

Reducing the number and cost of public bodies is a coalition priority. The triennial review process has been established to continue the Government’s work ensuring accountability in public life by examining all NDPB’s at least once every three years.

The review will be conducted as set out in Cabinet Office guidance. This review has two aims:

to provide a robust challenge of the continuing need for this NDPB—both its functions and form; and,

if it is agreed that it should remain as an NDPB, to review the control and governance arrangements in place to ensure that the public body is complying with recognised principles of good corporate governance.

Further details of the review, including detailed terms of reference, will be published shortly.

If you would like further information, or to contribute to the review, please contact Richard Davey by email ([e-mail])

I remain committed to the ongoing review of public bodies and my Department continues to work with the Cabinet Office to develop forward plans of reviews.

The report of the review, which is expected to be completed in six months, will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.