§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions on how many occasions the service on the Jubilee Line extension has been suspended since its opening; and what the reasons were in each case. [109834]
§ Mr. HillService has never been suspended over the whole line. However, on occasion, trains had to stop while the control computer was rebooted. This typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. There have also been signal-related problems at Stratford (the most complex area) sometimes resulting in suspension of service on the Stratford-North Greenwich section.
The challenges arising from the start of through running were expected since problems are anticipated when bedding in a new railway. London Underground is doing all it can to stabilise and improve performance. The service showed dramatic improvement over the Christmas/New Year period and through January, with the number of incidents lasting 15 minutes dropping from 37 in December to 20 in January. Signal modifications have had a negative impact on recent performance but these changes will improve service. Work is in hand which should improve performance significantly over the next few months.
The table details the number of reported incidents of 15 minutes or more (some of which involved partial suspension of services) since through running began on 20 November 1999. Detailed explanation in each case is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
Week commencing Number of incidents 15 minutes or more 20 November 1999 5 27 November 1999 7 4 December 1999 3 11 December 1999 14 18 December 1999 14 25 December 1999 6 1 January 2000 6 8 January 2000 6 15 January 2000 2 22 January 2000 6 Total 69