§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects British Rail to be in a position to run new rolling stock on the Preston to Colne line.
§ Mr. FreemanThe service is already operated by modern Pacer units.
§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the quality, speed, comfort and reliability of the train service between Preston and Colne.
§ Mr. FreemanThese matters are primarily for the British Railways Board. However, I understand that, while services have operated reasonably well over recent months, there is still room for improvements. British Rail's passengers charter provides for compensation to be paid to passengers where performance falls significantly below agreed standards.