HL Deb 27 July 1998 vol 592 c167WA
Lord Berkeley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the franchise agreements with Virgin Rail and Great North Eastern Railways in respect of the west and east coast main lines respectively would be affected by the introduction of Eurostar services north of London if they were permitted to carry domestic passengers. [HL2868]

Baroness Hayman

If Eurostar (UK) Ltd. were to carry domestic passengers on any of their services they would need a licence from the Regulator to enable them to do so. Before issuing such a licence, the Regulator would need to consult with a number of interested parties including the holders of the west and east coast main line franchises.