GovWire

Esther McVey has been appointed as the new Chair of the British Transport Police Authority (BTPA), for a 4 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 Britains 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. As part of her role, Esther McVey will continue to 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 Esthers guidance that record can continue.

Esther McVey said:

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.

The BTP is a specialist, national force that provides a service to rail operators, their staff and passengers. It also polices other networks the London Underground, Docklands Light Railway, Croydon Tramlink, Sunderland Metro and Glasgow Subway. It has around 3,000 police officers and around 600 PCSOs and Special Constables.

The BTPA was established in 2004 to improve the public accountability of the BTP.

Esther McVey was the Member of Parliament (MP) for Wirral West from 2010 until 2015, and a minister in the Department for Work and Pensions between 2012 and 2015. Before entering politics, she was a businesswoman and broadcaster. Ms McVey holds degrees in Law (LLB), and an MSc in Corporate Governance. She also founded the If Chloe Can charity providing career support and advice for school pupils.

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