§ Mr. StunellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received about overcrowding of trains on the trans-Pennine routes; and if he will make a statement. [25275]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonI have received 2 representations specifically about overcrowding on the trans—Pennine routes between Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield. Both representations were complaints about journeys affected by disruption which caused some cancellations and delays, affecting available capacity. The Franchising Director places an obligation on operators to avoid excessive overcrowding by requiring train operators to make reasonable endeavours to ensure that sufficient capacity is provided on each train.