NETWORK Rail was accused of “burying bad news” yesterday by revealing bonuses for bosses as the media focused on local and European election results. 

The publicly funded company claimed its £50,000 handouts for five directors are “significantly” reduced. 

It said the payout is just 12.5 per cent of salary when the maximum possible was 60 per cent. 

A spokesman said: “The decision reflects mixed results on key performance objectives during the year, but recognises well-managed recovery from a winter of extreme weather.”

TSSA rail union leader Manuel Cortes pointed out the bonuses were agreed on Wednesday but “cynically delayed until Friday so NR could ‘bury the bad news’ with the Ukip victory in the local elections.”

“The cynicism of the public relations is almost beyond belief.” 

Network Rail’s stunt will further anger families of loves ones who died because of the company’s poor safety at level crossings.