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UK rail operators share privatisation experiences with Swedes
date 17 October 2000 source ATOC type Press release
Learning from the privatisation of British Rail was one of the leading issues discussed today when directors at the Association of Train Operating Companies meet representatives from Svjf (Association of Swedish Train Operators).
The Swedish operators are currently looking at increasing private sector investment and have sought input from Britain on industry issues such as regulation, through-ticketing, communications and the best format for a trade association body for rail.
ATOC Director General, George Muir said: "The privatisation of BR has generated much interest from other rail organisations around the world and we are always willing to share our experiences with them.
"National Rail operators have learnt a lot during the past four years. We have made many improvements in some areas and fallen short in others. However, we are learning all the time and the industry is tackling performance and congestion problems through the SRA's franchise renewal programme which is well underway."
Chairman of Svjf, Sven-Olof Nehrer, said: "We are impressed by how far ATOC has come in such a short time to actually build up a body to take care of the expected needs of the National Rail operators.
"I think the railway, with open access and open to competition, has a brilliant future to serve both the public, and business. In Sweden we are just setting up a trade association for train operators. We have certainly been inspired by our visit to ATOC on how to do it."
ENDS
For more information call the ATOC Press Office on 020 7904 3010
