§ Sir Paul BeresfordTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how he plans to consult potential franchisees on his proposals for franchising passenger railway services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacGregorI published a consultation document on 12 October with the aim of seeking the views of potential franchisees on the areas, geographically and in terms of specific activities, which may be of interest, and on the ways in which the franchising of passenger services might best be carried out. This should ensure that we implement franchising in the most market oriented way, so maximising competition and ensuring value for money. I have placed copies of this document in the Library.