§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what change he has made in the authorised charges to be made by Railtrack to train operating companies; what sums were previously expected to be received in total income and what sums are not expected; and what will he the effect of the difference in rail improvements and maintenance.
§ Mr. WattsThe Rail Regulator is responsible for approving the access charges levied by Railtrack. The regulator recently announced, following a review of Railtrack's access charges, that charges in 1995–96 should be, on average, 8 per cent. lower in real terms than their level in 1994–95. Thereafter, they will be reduced in real terms by 2 per cent. per annum. The regulator has stated that he considers that this level of income will generate sufficient cash flow to enable Railtrack to finance the investment programme needed to maintain a safe, effective and efficient network.
Total access charges levied by Railtrack on franchised passenger train operators in 1994–95 were £2,065 million.