§ Mr. Ben ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make improved timekeeping and extended boarding times on the Euston to Liverpool Lime Street line a condition for renewal of the West Coast main line franchise. [129601]
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§ Mr. HillThe present franchise for the West Coast main line is not due to be replaced until 9 March 2012. When replacing franchises, the Franchising Director will be seeking to improve services to passengers and improvements in performance. Boarding times at stations are an operational matter for Train Operating Companies and it is not envisaged that they will be the subject of specific franchise requirements.
§ Mr. Ben ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received about making the level of on-board service a condition of franchise renewal for the West Coast main line. [129600]
§ Mr. HillThe Secretary of State has not received any representations about making the level of on-board service a condition of franchise renewal for the West Coast Main Line. The present franchise for the West Coast Main Line is not due to be replaced until 9 March 2012. This franchise, in common with all the other passenger rail franchises, does not contain any provisions stipulating which on-board services must be provided. It is not envisaged that there will be any such provisions in any of the replacement franchises.