Esther McVey has been appointed as the new Chair of the British Transport Police Authority (BTPA), for a four year term.
The new Chair will play a vital role in setting the strategic direction of the BTPA to ensure that the British Transport Police (BTP) – which polices Britain’s rail network – is an efficient and effective force that provides excellent service, maintains the security of the transport network, and delivers value for money for the taxpayer.
Esther, who officially takes up her post today, got a taste of her new role when she briefly visited BTP’s offices with the Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin yesterday. Esther and Patrick met the Chief Constable of BTP Paul Crowther and discussed transport safety as well as touring BTP’s CCTV facilities.
As part of her role, Esther McVey will work with the BTP to oversee transport security and to tackle the issue of sexual violence on the rail network.
The appointment was made by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin following an independent selection process.
Patrick McLoughlin said:
“The security of the travelling public has never been more important and Esther McVey will bring considerable skills to this vital task. Although Britain has one of the safest railways in Europe we face increasing risks that mean there can be no room for complacency. The British Transport Police do a fantastic job keeping passengers safe and secure and I am confident that under Esther’s guidance that record can continue.”
Responding to the announcement Andrew Figgures Chief Executive of the Authority said:
“I congratulate Esther on her success in being appointed Chair of the BTPA.
“She will provide strong leadership to the Authority in governing BTP so that it delivers value for money by achieving its strategic goals of reducing disruption and crime whilst increasing passenger confidence within a tight budget.”
New Chair of BTPA Esther McVey added:
“With more and more people using the railways, the role of the British Transport Police in allowing people to travel safely is more important than ever. I am delighted to have been appointed Chair of the Police Authority and am honoured to be taking up this role. I look forward to playing my part in building on the excellent work the British Transport Police does.”
Chief Constable Paul Crowther said:
“I welcome Esther as the new Chair of the BTPA. She joins us at an exciting and challenging time as the Force delivers a significant change programme to enable us to achieve our strategic objectives of reducing crime and disruption and increasing confidence levels.
“I met Esther yesterday when she visited our CCTV hub with the Secretary of State for Transport and I look forward to working with her as we build on our specialist approach to meet the current and future challenges of policing the rail network.”