HL Deb 10 November 1999 vol 606 cc170-1WA
Lord Faulkner of Worcester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What advice they have received from Railtrack plc on the future management of the company's property portfolio in ways which are consistent with the development of an integrated transport policy, the enhancement of the rail travel experience and the encouragement of additional rail passenger business. [HL4555]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

Railtrack manages its property portfolio on a commercial basis but subject to oversight by the Rail Regulator to protect the public interest. Railtrack is prohibited under the terms of its network licence from disposing of land without the Regulator's consent where the disposal would mean that Railtrack was unable to meet its existing contractual obligations. The Regulator is considering whether the regulatory controls over Railtrack in this area are sufficient.

Lord Faulkner of Worcester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What encouragement they have given to Railtrack plc to develop their property portfolio in ways which increase the rail travel business as well as enhance shareholder value. [HL4556]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

As part of his current review of Railtrack's access charges, the Rail Regulator is considering how best to reflect the value of Railtrack's property portfolio and the proceeds from its management and development.

Lord Faulkner of Worcester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will require Railtrack plc to publish their policy for the development of their property portfolio. [HL4557]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

Railtrack's annual Network Management Statement contains detailed information about its plans for the development of the rail network. This includes information about stations and maintenance depots.