§ Mr. ReedTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what action he is taking to promote the re-introduction of passenger rail lines in semi-rural areas. [31009]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonI expect local authorities, the railway industry and the Franchising Director to work together to develop whatever schemes deliver best value for money for communities. The revised Objectives, Instructions and Guidance (OIG) we issued in November require the Franchising Director to offer guidance and advice to local authorities on how they can develop and secure finance for new investment, and his interim Criteria for the Appraisal of Support for Passenger Rail Services set out the basis on which he would take decisions about proposals to support new projects. I understand that my right hon. Friend the Minister for Transport has recently met hon. Members and Councillors about proposals for schemes in Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire and that that dialogue is now continuing at officer level.