§ Mr. GapesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how load factor requirements in passenger service requirements will be monitored. [6010]
§ Mr. WattsFranchisees are required to demonstrate that capacity levels are not exceeded by means of passenger counts. Franchisees are required to carry out passenger counts when so requested by the Franchising Director, subject to a maximum of two counts in any 12 month period and a minimum of one count in any 15-month period. The counts must be designed to ensure that the results are typical of demand on the services being monitored for that time of year and day of the week. The methods for undertaking the surveys must be approved by the Franchising Director, and the results are subject to audit by the Franchising Director.
§ Mr. GapesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what sanctions will apply against rail franchise operators exceeding load factor requirements. [6011]
§ Mr. WattsWhere load factors are specified in the passenger service requirement, failure of the franchise operator to use all reasonable endeavours to provide sufficient capacity so as not to exceed the load factor specifications will constitute a breach of the franchise agreement. If there is a breach of the franchise agreement, the Franchising Director may serve an enforcement order requiring compliance. Failure to comply is an event of default.