Recruitment and pay critical to Rail Executive

摘要

DfT's contract negotiation and management capabilities for both franchising and major projects need to be strengthened, according to the Jackson Review (above). It notes that while there is capability in these areas, DfT does not have the number of permanent staff needed to run an expanding refranchising and investment programme, the current establishment largely comprising 'those who joined from the Strategic Rail Authority in 2005'. Since then it has proved difficult to recruit, retain and develop new permanent staff, and DfT's ability to restart the franchising programme has depended heavily on 'interims' who now represent over 50% of the workforce in some areas.