By CHRIS BLACKHURST FOR four turbulent years, Robert Ayling ran British Airways. He was hit by a damaging cabin-crew strike in 1997, took the Union Flag off the tailfins, tried and failed to merge with American Airlines and, in his final year, presided over a 50% profits fall.

FOUR years ago, being chief executive of Royal Ahold, the giant European and American food retailer and distributor based in Amsterdam, was probably the worst job in Europe.

By Anonymous TRANSPORT The Government's transport adviser has said he is not against a new generation of faster rail lines - despite not recommending them in his recent review of transport policy. Giving evidence to a Commons select committee this week.

Congestion on the East Coast rail route and metropolitan roads will become increasingly severe if no action is taken, a transport expert yesterday warned.

The region should be handed more powers over roads or ministers could risk "impasse" over developments, a top Government adviser signalled.