§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he has taken to encourage increased investment in the railway service in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [39280]
§ Mr. HainInvestment in rail infrastructure is primarily a matter for Railtrack, with the Government supporting rail services through the franchise agreements with442W operators. One of the main objectives of the Government's new integrated transport policy will be to win more passengers and freight on to the railways. The policy will be set out in a UK White Paper to be published later in the spring, together with a complementary transport policy statement for Wales. In the meantime, I am discussing with train operators the scope for improving services from North to South Wales.