It added that whilst the former managing director had made efforts to reduce conflict and improve behaviour, there had been no consistent corporate focus on addressing the issues.

BBC: Minister to step in over council

These include weak self-regulation, inappropriate behaviour and conflict.

BBC: Minister to step in over council

In analysing the region's long history of turbulent relationships, Mr Halliday laments the fact that history is so often allowed to provide an excuse for present conflict, prejudice and bad behaviour.

ECONOMIST: The Middle East

Resolving this conflict between the government's desire to promote competitive behaviour and train operators' desire to secure their investment is difficult.

ECONOMIST: After privatising