§ Mr. EffordTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received(a) on train cancellations and delays that are due to leaves on the track, (b) on the arrangements made by Railtrack and train operating companies to clear leaves from the track, (c) on the level of resources spent each year since privatisation on such activities and (d) on train cancellations and delays on Connex North Kent lines due to leaves on the track. [97225]
§ Mr. HillThe Secretary of State and the Franchising Director have received few representations about train cancellations and delays relating to leaves on the track or the level of resources devoted to leaf clearance. None of these has concerned the Connex North Kent lines specifically. Railtrack and train operating companies have set aside £50 million to combat leaves on the lines.