Written question asked by Nigel Spearing (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 16 October 1996. It was answered by John Major (Conservative) on Wednesday, 16 October 1996 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister

Question: Pursuant to his statement of 10th October in Bournemouth concerning improvements to rail passenger services arising from privatisation, if he will (a) give specific examples and (b) show what criteria he used for coming to this general conclusion. - Including figures.

Answer: Mr. Spearing: To ask the Prime Minister, pursuant to his statement of 10 October in Bournemouth concerning improvements to rail passenger services from privatisation, if he will (a) give specific examples and (b) show that criteria he used for coming to this general conclusion. [40796] The Prime Minister: Rail franchising is leading to extra investment, additional train services, better passengers charters and improved passenger care. The new franchisee on South Eastern, for instance, is committed to replacing its existing trains with modern rolling stock, at a cost of up to £400 million. The franchisee for Midland MainLine plans to introduce an extra 22 weekday services each day between Leicester and London, and InterCity East Coast intends to invest some £17 million in improvements to rolling stock performance, passenger security and disabled access. These are just some of the improvements which franchising will bring to the passenger rail network at less cost to the taxpayer.

Secondary information