Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 8 July 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 July 2008. It was answered by Tom Harris (Labour) on Monday, 14 July 2008 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Rolling Stock

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport which rail franchises have approached her Department prior to a formal application being submitted to request additional rolling stock during the current franchise.

Answer: Since the Department for Transport took over responsibility for rail franchise management in 2005, some operators have held discussions with the Department proposing additional rolling stock, usually linked to a wider package of contract alterations. These discussions are commercially confidential. The Department considers all such proposals to determine whether they are consistent with procurement law, affordable, provide value for money for the taxpayer and fit with objectives for the rail network.The Department set out its requirements in the White Paper, Delivering a Sustainable Railway 2007, that it would procure through the operators an additional 1300 new vehicles. These discussions are now taking place and will result in the delivery of the vehicles.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 479 c8W; 218361
Session: 2007-08
Related items: Rolling Stock
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Rolling stock
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk