§ Mr. Matthew BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received concerning the consultation document "The Franchising of Passenger Rail Services"; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanOver 100 responses have been received to the consultation document, including more than 50 expressing interest in operating passenger rail services under franchise. The replies are being considered and various points are being pursued and clarified with some of the respondents. We hope to be able to announce early next year the first services or groups of services that will be prepared for franchising.