§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will discuss with the Rail Franchising Director the introduction of a minimum passenger service requirement covering the port of Fishguard; and if he will make a statement. [8970]
§ Mr. WattsNo. The detailed specification of passenger service requirements is a matter for the Franchising Director. Services to Fishguard will be covered by the PSR for the South Wales and West Railway on which the Franchising Director will be consulting in due course. The new franchisee for Great Western train services—Great Western Holdings—has specifically committed to maintain the overall number of services in the 1995–96 timetable between London Paddington and Fishguard, until the timetable for 1999–2000 and subject to connecting ferry services continuing to operate during that period.