§ Mr. TruswellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he is taking to encourage renewal of rolling stock and to reduce overcrowding on the Wharfedale, Harrogate and Calderdale lines. [35745]
§ Dr. StrangThese are matters for the Franchising Director and West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive. On 6 November 1997, I gave the Franchising Director new Objectives, Instructions and Guidance which require him to manage existing franchise agreements in a manner which promotes the interests of the passenger, and to secure a progressive improvement in the quality of rail services. Existing franchise agreements require operators to address expected demand for services and to demonstrate improving levels of customer satisfaction. Our forthcoming White Paper will set out new measures to increase the attractiveness of rail travel.