HC Deb 03 April 1995 vol 257 cc959-60W
19. Mr. Charles Kennedy

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he last met the Director of Passenger Rail Franchising to discuss the award of franchises; and if he will make a statement. [15709]

Dr. Mawhinney

I last met the franchising director to discuss franchising on Wednesday 22 March. I welcome his recent announcement that 37 organisations have applied to pre-qualify for the first group of eight franchises. This is a vote of confidence in railway privatisation.