Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, who said passengers deserved "an affordable, reliable and rapid service", but had been failed by "years of fragmentation, confusion and over-complication", declared: "That complicated and broken system ends today." He added: "Great British Railways marks a new era in the history of our railways. It will become a single familiar brand with a bold new vision for passengers - of punctual services, simpler tickets and a modern and green railway that meets the needs of the nation." The shake-up is based on the recommendations of a review of the industry carried out by former British Airways chief executive Keith Williams following the chaotic introduction of new timetables in May 2018.