Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 10 November 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 November 1998. It was answered by Glenda Jackson (Labour) on Monday, 16 November 1998 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, if it is his policy to allow British Rail to bid for future rail franchises.

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if it is his policy to allow British Rail to bid for future rail franchises. [59675] Ms Glenda Jackson: Subject to legislation, the British Railways Board will become part of the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA). The SRA will let all new franchises and will act as the public sector operator of last resort. Meanwhile, my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister announced on 30 September that we will enable the revitalised British Railways Board to step in if any of the franchises fails for whatever reason.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 319 c337W; 59675
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: British Rail Privatisation Railway network Strategic Rail Authority