Written question asked by Tom Brake (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 6 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 10 January 2006. It was answered by Derek Twigg (Labour) on Monday, 23 January 2006 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Alstom Rail Test Track

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions his Department has held with (a) Network Rail, (b) the Association of Train Operating Companies and (c) Alstom about the impact of the closure of the Alstom rail test track on (i) jobs and (ii) engineering capacity in the UK.

Answer: The Department has held informal discussions with Network Rail and the Association of Train Operating Companies about the implications for UK railway testing capability of Alstom's announcement of its intention to surrender its lease of the Asfordby/Old Dalby test track. Alstom's announcement was not preceded by discussions with the Department. BRB Residuary Ltd. has subsequently asked Alstom to clarify its intentions so that the future of the facility can be considered.

Secondary information