The transport secretary has outlined plans to scrap the Strategic Rail Authority and devolve more power over the railways to the regions.

Government Response: Department for Transport

Alistair Darling, transport secretary, said: "Last year the railways carried over a billion passengers for the first time since the 1960's. So it's essential we put in place the right organisation to run the railways providing passengers with reliable and efficient services.

"The proposals I am announcing today streamline the structure of the organisation of the railway, they provide a single point of accountability for performance, allow closer working between track and train and provide for greater local and devolved decision making.

"We are putting the organisation of the railways on a stable long-term footing backed by increased funding. We have set out a clear direction for Britain's railway backed by the money it needs."

Party Response: Conservative

Tim Yeo, shadow secretary of state for environment and transport, said: "Today's announcement is another example of fat government instead of slimming down of bureaucracy which the government has promised.