Strategic Rail Authority

The Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) formerly known as the Shadow Strategic Rail Authority (SSRA) is a non-departmental public body in the United Kingdom which was set up to provide strategic direction for Britain's railway industry. It lets and manages franchises to run railway services.

Related Topics:
United Kingdom - Britain's railway industry

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The Shadow Strategic Rail Authority was established following the election of the Labour government in 1997 in an attempt to re-regulate the fractured railway network following the privatisation of British Rail. It incorporated the former Conservative government's Office of Passenger Rail Franchising (OPRAF). The SRA was placed on a formal legal basis by the Transport Act 2000 and it ended its shadow existence on 1 February 2001.

Related Topics:
Labour - Privatisation of British Rail - Conservative government - Office of Passenger Rail Franchising - Transport Act 2000 - 1 February - 2001

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The SRA operates under Directions and Guidance (D&G) from the Secretary of State for Transport. In Scotland it is also subject to D&G from the Scottish Minister for Transport, and is subject to D&G from the Mayor of London in respect of services operating within that city.

Related Topics:
Secretary of State for Transport - Scotland - Mayor of London

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In Scotland the budget of the SRA is devolved to the Scottish Parliament under the terms of the Barnett Formula.

Related Topics:
Scotland - Scottish Parliament - Barnett Formula

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On July 15, 2004 the Secretary of State for Transport, Alistair Darling, announced that the SRA was to be abolished within the next 12-18 months, with some functions transferred to the government, some to Network Rail. Devolved governments such as the Scottish Executive, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Greater London Authority will be given some input in their areas.

Related Topics:
July 15 - 2004 - Secretary of State for Transport - Alistair Darling - Network Rail - Scottish Executive - Welsh Assembly Government - Greater London Authority

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