Written question asked by John McDonnell (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 December 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 December 2004. It was answered by Tony McNulty (Labour) on Monday, 20 December 2004 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, by what mechanisms Strategic Rail Authority staff's pay and conditions will be protected if they transfer to its replacement organisation in his Department.

Answer: John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport by what mechanisms Strategic Rail Authority staff's pay and conditions will be protected if they transfer to its replacement organisation in his Department. [206238] Mr. McNulty: The Government's policy as set out in the Cabinet Office Statement of Practice on Public Sector Transfers commits it to apply TUPE principles to these transfers even where TUPE may not apply as a matter of law. The Railways Bill will make provision for transfers of staff from the Strategic Rail Authority to the Department for Transport to be effected by means of transfer schemes. These schemes will provide for the transfer of staff contracts, and will preserve existing terms and conditions, continuity of employment and length of service.

Secondary information