§ Sir Geoffrey Johnson SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the Government's proposals for railway passenger services franchising as they relate to the Uckfield service.
§ Mr. FreemanOur proposals are for the private sector progressively to take over the operation of passenger services under franchises, including services on the Uckfield line, while British Rail will retain responsibility for track and signalling. We intend to publish a White Paper shortly which will set out our proposals in more detail.