BW gives evidence to EFRA select committee

BW was represented by chairman Tony Hales, chief executive Robin Evans, technical director Jim Stirling and legal director Nigel Johnson. The session provided an excellent opportunity to highlight BW's contribution to the revival of waterways and waterside communities across the country. It also allowed the committee to explore British Waterways' commitment to waterway restoration and set straight the facts that led to its withdrawal from the Cotswold Canals Partnership.

Commenting on the session Robin Evans said; "I was very pleased to have been given the opportunity to appear before the committee and I hope that we managed to convey just some of the passion that I know everyone at British Waterways feels for securing the future and continuing expansion of the waterway network. It was particularly useful to have the chance to explain the many challenges facing BW and the difficult decisions we have to take in balancing competing priorities."

The Committee Chairman, Rt Hon Michael Jack MP, acknowledged the large number of written submissions it had received from third parties - including regional development authorities and local authorities - involved in waterway regeneration. The Committee today heard from waterways minister, Jonathan Shaw MP and further details will be made available on the committee's website at www.parliament.uk/efracom.