§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations his Department has received since 1 May on the effectiveness of the service provided by Railtrack; and if he will make a statement on its operation. [19224]
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§ Ms Glenda JacksonFor the seven-month period to 1 December 1997, my Department has received 179 representations about railway issues involving Railtrack. The recent modification to the company's network licence places Railtrack under a stronger duty to keep up to date with its programme of maintenance, renewal and improvement and gives the Rail Regulator enforcement powers if Railtrack fails to deliver its programme without good reason.
§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will take steps to ensure that Railtrack invests in track and signalling improvements. [19235]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonA recent modification to Railtrack's network licence establishes a new general duty in respect of maintenance, renewal and development of the rail network. It also places obligations on Railtrack to consult the train operating companies and to publish the criteria by which it will determine the priority and timing of different works. In addition, the licence now gives the Rail Regulator powers of investigation and enforcement to ensure that Railtrack's programme objectives have been met.