HC Deb 01 July 1997 vol 297 c133W
Mr. Barstow

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to extend the powers of the Rail Regulator to enable him to prevent train operating companies making significant changes to the conditions applying to network-purchased train tickets. [5463]

Ms Glenda Jackson

Neither the Government nor the Rail Regulator has powers to prevent train operating companies making changes to the conditions applying to the Network Card. Train operating companies' participation in the Network Card scheme is voluntary and there is no statutory obligation on them to offer the Network Card.

The Government is currently considering the options for establishing more effective and accountable regulation by the Rail Regulator.

Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will meet the Rail Operators Association to discuss their proposals to(a) limit the use of the network and (b) increase the cost of travel for those using the network card. [6299]

Ms Jackson

The Government has no powers to prevent train operators changing either the price of the Network Card or the conditions on which it is offered. The Government is keen to see off-peak rail travel increase. We have already held a number of discussions with train operators, and we will continue to encourage them to develop new plans to expand the off-peak market in the South East and elsewhere.