Recommendation 3

There is a widespread consensus that establishing a smooth and stable pipeline of investment would bring manifold benefits to both the railway and the rail supply industry. With more certainty and visibility of upcoming work, and fewer peaks and troughs, resources could be allocated more effectively, capabilities could be maintained and projects could be delivered more quickly and at a lower cost. The boom and bust pattern of electrification is a conspicuous example of where this planning has been lacking, leading to losses of capability, poor value for money—and a network that is still only 39 per cent electrified. (Conclusion, Paragraph 37) 49