§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what consultation the Government and the shadow Strategic Rail Authority will conduct with(a) local rail users, (b) local rail user groups and (c) local and regional authorities in the award of (a) new and (b) extended rail franchises. [129389]
§ Mr. HillThe Franchising Director is operating an inclusive consultation process for franchise replacement. The Instructions and Guidance issued to him require him to consult, as appropriate, the Scottish Executive, the National Assembly for Wales, the Greater London Authority, local authorities, Passenger Transport Executives, regional planning bodies, Regional Development Agencies and Rail Passenger Committees (formerly Rail Users Consultative Committees). He is also encouraging bidders for replacement franchises to consult with these authorities and passenger representatives about the proposals in their bids.