HL Deb 25 October 1999 vol 606 c7WA
Lord Berkeley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the policy of the Shadow Strategic Rail Authority for allocating train paths between different passenger franchise operators, as well as allowing for the reasonable requirements of freight operators. [HL4249]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

The allocation of train paths is the responsibility of Railtrack, subject to the approval of the Rail Regulator. The instructions and guidance to the Franchising Director at the SSRA require him, in pursuing his objectives for passengers, to take into account other relevant government policies, specifically including rail freight.