HC Deb 11 March 1996 vol 273 c470W
Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when the train operating companies running services between London and Colchester will be taken over by the private sector. [18596]

Mr. Watts

Services between London and Colchester are currently operated by Great Eastern and Anglia. The franchising director issued invitations to pre-qualify for the Anglia franchise on 22 February, and the deadline for expressions of interest is 22 March. Invitations to tender will be issued as soon as is practicable. The Great Eastern franchise will be offered to the private sector in due course.