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The new man
Page 4
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Norman Fowler, the new Minister of Transport, must make his presence felt in Government at an early stage in his career. He must see his Cabinet appointment as one ranking with those of the Secretaries of State for Industry, Employment and Environment in importance. These are departments whose interests are closely aligned to transport and with whom inter-working is essential.
There can be no case for any one minister going it alone to further his own political career. But neither should the Transport Minister regard himself as some sort of second-class citizen, as many previous incumbents apparently did.
Wm Rodgers was not everyone's idea of the ideal Transport Minister, but he proved more effective than many of his predecessors. Mr Fowler would do well to study the Rodgers and Marsh styles — somewhere between them, there is a figure whose presence at Marsham Street would ensure that transport is given a proper hearing in the affairs of the nation.
He need not be as strong willed as Sir Richard, nor should he bend the knee so often to the Prime Minister as many believe Bill Rodgers did. A decisive, energetic approach, an attentive ear and a commercial understanding are the qualities which will win the support of the road sector. Regular frank exchanges with the trade associations would provide the new minister with a working knowledge rather than a "political 'knowledge" of his department.
Mr Fowler must become part of the industry, not a remote detached character who is no more than a name on a press release.