§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take action to ensure leasing arrangements are put into place to enable new rolling stock to be acquired and operated under the west Yorkshire electrification scheme; and if he will make a statement. [12258]
§ Mr. Watts[holding answer 29 January]: The acquisition of new rolling stock is a matter for the train operator, in conjunction with the West Yorkshire passenger train executives, to discuss with rolling stock leasing companies.
§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he has called for reports into recent incidents concerning the failure of rolling stock being operated under the west Yorkshire electrification scheme; what subsequent action he has taken; and if he will make a statement. [12257]
§ Mr. Watts[holding answer 29 January]: An incident on 17 November, when there was an electrical explosion on a class 308 electric multiple unit, has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive's railway inspectorate, and an investigation by railway research staff is being monitored by HSE inspectors. All the trains in service have been examined and the inspectorate is satisfied that the necessary measures are in place to allow them to be used safely.