This, they say, will enable every Tube train to be replaced and stations to be modernised. But details of the plans come less than 24 hours after the High Court gave London Mayor Ken Livingstone the go-ahead to challenge the government's policy. The hearing will start on 12 June and follows weeks of fruitless negotiations with ministers. Mr Livingstone and London Transport Commissioner, Bob Kiley, claim PPP would put lives at risk on the Underground and would be too expensive.
Ministers also believe it is better value for money than the existing system.
Under their plans, responsibility for tracks, signalling and tunnels would be carved up between three private sector companies. It adds that contracts with the private sector will ensure there is a firm timetable for the introduction of new trains and the modernisation of stations. There are also plans for extra services on nine of the Tube's 12 lines. The document pledges that safety will not be undermined as a result of the partial sell-off. Modern equipment will produce higher safety standards.