HC Deb 19 March 1999 vol 327 c579W
Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the railway routes classified as rural where the present frequency of service exceeds that required under the relevant franchise agreement, giving in each case (i) the minimum frequency required, (ii) that currently applicable and (iii) that applicable in 1988. [76506]

Ms Glenda Jackson

The information requested is not available.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is his policy in respect of the present minimum frequency levels required by current franchise agreements in respect of rural railway services. [76505]

Ms Glenda Jackson

The present minimum frequency levels in respect of all services are matters of contract. We have made it clear we are prepared to renegotiate existing franchise agreements if greater investment and better performance can be obtained for passengers and on terms that represent value for money for the taxpayer.