Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Monday, 12 March 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 16 March 2001. It was answered by Keith Hill (Labour) on Friday, 16 March 2001 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 he will make a statement on progress with regard to the awarding of new-rail franchises and the role being played by OPRAF.

Answer: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on progress with regard to the awarding of new rail franchises and the role being played by OPRAF. [153909] Mr. Hill: The Strategic Rail Authority has taken over the functions of OPRAF. Franchise replacement is taking longer than originally anticipated in some cases but remains a priority for the Government and the Authority. The replacement process remains essential to delivering service improvements to passengers and the potential benefits are already clear in the new proposals for the Chiltern and South Central franchises.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 153909; 364 c748W
Session: 2000-01
Subjects: Franchises Railways Office of Passenger Rail Franchising Train operating companies Strategic Rail Authority Connex Rail Chiltern line
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk