§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the implications for the delivery of increased rail usage of Railtrack's policy towards the disposal of its property assets. [69891]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe disposal of property assets owned by Railtrack is a commercial matter for the company. However, its powers of disposal are limited. Closure of railway lines (as well as passenger services, stations and light maintenance depots) which have been used in connection with railway passenger services at any time within the last five years are subject to consideration by the Franchising Director, the Rail Regulator and the Secretary of State, and wide consultation.
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