§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he had taken to improve rail services in Wales, with particular reference to the Wrexham-Bidston rail line; and if he will make a statement. [78952]
§ Mr. HainI am keen to see high quality rail services throughout Wales, and I have announced recently that the Welsh Office will be working closely with the North Wales Economic Forum to improve rail services between North and South Wales. The creation of the shadow Strategic Rail Authority is an important first step in ensuring that the train operators in Wales deliver the service which the public have a right to expect. This includes the Wrexham to Bidston line, where services are provided by First North Western with financial support from the Franchising Director and, for certain services, a consortium of local authorities.
Following the transfer of functions, responsibility for the regulation and financial support of passenger rail services will remain with the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions.