Pledge: Byers

Stephen Byers has pledged to uphold conditions of public sector workers.

During a symposium on Friday organised by the UNISON union the transport secretary welcomed the debate on how to improve the quality of public services.

Despite rows over the role of private companies in public transport, Byers signalled that the government was not about to make a U-turn. Instead he argued the issue should not be an argument of public versus private but how to "deliver best practice".

"Quality services cannot be achieved without a well trained and motivated workforce. You cannot drive up the quality of services by driving down the conditions of those who are asked to deliver them," Byers said.

"I am determined to ensure that those delivering our public services are supported in developing the skills and training they need to do the job well and that they receive fair terms and conditions for their work. What we must do now is to make sure that all service providers follow the practices of the best," he said.