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Byers faces wave of criticism
Page 4
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• Speculation has been growing this week over the future of Transport Secretary Stephen Byers after mounting criticism.
Reports suggest that both industry and government sources are considering finding a replacement for his "bed of nails" job.
On his return to work after a holiday in India he was forced to issue a state ment explaining his absence during a period of mounting transport prob lems, particularly on the railways where thousands of commuters were stranded by strike action.
Byers says there is never a good time for a cabinet minister to take a holiday but hopes people will recognise that those with public roles also had a right to a private life.
He adds: "I think the travelling public recognise there can be no quick fixes. At the time of the next general election we will be judged on whether we have provided improvements."
Pundits are suggesting that Downing Street has lost confidence in Byers, but it has moved to quash rumours insisting he still has its full support.
Andrew Smith, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and Gordon Brown's No 2 is being touted as the most likely replacement; he served as shadow Transport Secretary before Labour came to power.