§ 10. Michael Fabricant ( Lichfield)How many delayed train arrivals there were on the west coast main line in each year since 1999–2000; and if he will make a statement. [138863]
§ The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Dr. Kim Howells)The Strategic Rail Authority publishes performance information in its six-monthly "On Track" publication, copies of which are placed in the Library of the House. Information is provided for the services of each operator in aggregate, but not—I am afraid to say—by specific routes.
§ Michael FabricantThe Minister will know, because the Secretary of State said so a few moments ago, that things are not happening as quickly as they should in terms of punctuality and timing. Can he imagine the frustration of people in Lichfield, who stand at Lichfield Trent Valley railway station and watch trains whizzing by and not stopping? There are only four trains a day to London, although there will soon be five. Lichfield Trent Valley also has no facilities for the disabled. Will the Minister meet the Lichfield commuters club, which I formed and which will meet regularly at the House of Commons, for a drink—or two or three—to discuss the problems that people encounter?
§ Dr. HowellsI would be delighted to meet the Lichfield commuters club and to have a drink bought for me by the hon. Gentleman.