§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make representations to South West Trains not to reduce the spaces available for passengers' bicycles. [52014]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonFranchise Agreements require train operators to make appropriate facilities available on their services for bicycles so far as reasonably practicable and subject to the availability of space; they do not specify particular provisions. We gave the Franchising Director new Objectives, Instructions and Guidance in November last year which require him to discuss bicycle space with franchise operators ordering new rolling stock. I understand that South West Trains have refurbished their existing class 442 Wessex Electric trains. They have allowed five spaces per five car train for bicycles. The Franchising Director has accepted SWT's provision as striking a balance between the needs of bicycle users and other passengers. In his statement on transport policy on 20 July 1998,Official Report, columns 784–88, my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister announced our plans to set up a Strategic Rail Authority which will have stronger powers and seek more demanding standards of performance by train operators.