§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the selection of Resurgence Railways as preferred bidder for the Great Western franchise. [2846]
§ Mr. WattsNo. The franchising director has not announced bidders. He expects to announce the award of the Great Western franchise in December.
§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with the Director of Passenger Rail Franchising on matters relating to the Great Western rail franchise; what information on the bidding franchise he receives from the Director of Passenger Rail Franchising; and if he will make a statement. [2845]
§ Mr. WattsMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is briefed regularly by the franchising director on franchising issues including the progress being made towards offering the Great Western franchise to private sector bidders.