§ Mr. David DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on plans to improve rolling stock in the Great Western and Wessex areas. [107851]
§ Mr. SpellarFirst Great Western (FGW) is progressively introducing Class 180 Adelante trains to their services. In May, they will be extended onto the route between London and Cheltenham. The Strategic Rail Authority intends to investigate options for replacement or refurbishment of the 53 high speed train sets currently operated by FGW. Wessex Trains' Class 158 fleet is being increased to operate on the Stroud Valley shuttle services and the new Bristol-Worcester service from September 2003.
Wessex Trains are also refurbishing their Class 150 fleet to improve passenger comfort.