HC Deb 10 May 2000 vol 349 cc388-9W
Mr. Ashdown

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans the Government have to alter the rail franchise which covers the Exeter to Waterloo Line; and if he will make a statement. [121225]

Mr. Hill

The Franchising Director has announced that he is considering replacement of the existing South West Trains franchise with an option to include or exclude Exeter to Waterloo services. This is one of a number of alterations being considered to the existing franchise map, but on which no firm decisions have yet been taken.