Tube: We can still stop PPP!

Submitted by AWL on 9 December, 2002 - 6:04

By Janine Booth, Political Officer, RMT London Transport Regional Council

Tube activists are gearing up for a last-ditch battle to stop privatisation, as the Government expressed its determination to press ahead.

With breathtaking arrogance and contempt for the views of Londoners, Transport Secretary Alistair Darling declared that the transfers to private consortia would take place in January, and that he will not hand control of London Underground to Mayor Ken Livingstone whilst he (the Mayor) continues with legal challenges to the Public-Private Partnership (PPP). Adding insult to injury, he confirmed that the Government will underwrite the 'funding gap', and indemnify the private companies against any losses.

The previous week, RMT's London Transport Regional Council unanimously agreed a resolution to revive its campaign to stop privatisation. We now need that resolution to be put into action. There is no time to lose.

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Submitted by Janine on Mon, 09/12/2002 - 22:19

Cherie accountant faces Tube contracts fraud trial

070229 DEC 10

By Ananova

The accountant who arranged Cherie Blair's mortgage on two flats is awaiting trial at the Old Bailey on fraud charges.

Andrew Axelsen is being charged in connection with the awarding of contracts for the construction of the London Underground's Jubilee Line extension.

Mr Axelsen was recommended to Mrs Blair by convicted fraudster Peter Foster.

His co-defendant is Martin Williams, a solicitor suggested by Mr Foster to do the conveyancing on the property deal.

In the event, the Prime Minister's wife appointed another solicitor, the Daily Telegraph says.

A British Transport Police spokesman said: "Andrew Axelsen and Martin Williams have been charged in connection with a fraud investigation. Both await trial, with others, at the Central Criminal Court."

In the email exchange between Mrs Blair and Mr Foster, published in the Daily Mail, Mr Foster said he paid Mr Axelsen £4,000 for his services arranging a mortgage but did not ask Mrs Blair to reimburse him.

Downing Street is currently unavailable for comment, but insisted on Friday there was nothing improper about the purchase of the flats in Bristol, where the Blairs' son, Euan, is a student.
e-mail: JBooth9192 at aol.com

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