3 The provisions for consultation with Transport for London failed to secure agreement at each stage of a review process that preceded the current good practice framework of 'gateways'. In its absence, the Department and London Underground's decision makers faced difficulty in attempting to satisfy the private partners that they were insulated from the consequences of a possible early breakdown in the partnership. As good practice, and to avoid strengthening the private partner's negotiating position, Departments should - whenever possible - follow the path of joint negotiations and, at each stage, shared decision making with their agencies and other public sector bodies.