HC Deb 13 February 1996 vol 271 cc487-8W
Mr. Chris Davies

To ask the Secretary of state for Transport how much will be paid by the Office of Passenger Rail Franchising to the British Railways Board for the operation and marketing of passenger rail services in Greater Manchester in 1996–97; and how much in 1996–97 prices was paid by Greater Manchester passenger transport executive in 1995–96. [14614]

Mr. Watts

The Office of Passenger Rail Franchising is currently negotiating a contract with the British Railways Board for the provision of passenger rail services including those currently supported by Greater Manchester PTE for 1996–97. When this is completed it will be possible to indicate only the amount of support paid for each train operating company, not the amounts paid for specific areas. The amount paid by Greater Manchester PTE is a matter for it or for the British Railways Board.

Mr. Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport which organisation will become responsible from 1 April for the services for the(a) marketing, (b) promotion and (c) provision of information about passenger rail services currently provided by Greater Manchester passenger transport executive; and what sums will be allocated for these purposes in 1996–97. [14615]

Mr. Watts

From 1 April 1996, the train operating company, North West Regional Railways, will be responsible for these activities, and for funding them.

Mr. Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport which organisations will be responsible for the compilation of timetable information for Greater Manchester passenger rail services after 1 April. [14613]

Mr. Watts

From 1 April 1996 North West Regional Railways and Railtrack will become responsible for the compilation of timetable information on local rail services formerly supported by Greater Manchester passenger transport executive.

Mr. Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what changes in the responsibilities of the British Railways Board and North West Regional Railways for the provision of passenger rail services in Greater Manchester are planned to be introduced from 1 April. [14612]

Mr. Watts

From 1 April 1996 the franchising director will assume responsibility for the financial support of local rail services in the Greater Manchester area. The franchising director will also become responsible for determining the future level of services formerly secured by the Greater Manchester PTE.

Mr. Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what powers the Office of Passenger Rail Franchising has to enforce the contract held by North West Regional Railways, for providing Greater Manchester passenger rail services from 1 April. [14616]

Mr. Watts

The Office of Passenger Rail Franchising will have a legally enforceable contract with the British Railways Board for 1996–97 which will include the timetable for Greater Manchester services to be operated by North West Regional Railways.