HC Deb 08 November 2000 vol 356 cc219-20W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultation he has had with the First Secretary concerning skills shortages in Alyn and

operating within Wales to discuss improvements to Welsh railway lines; and what was the outcome of these meetings. [135241]

Mr. Paul Murphy

Oversight of the railway industry is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister.

I have met representatives of rail companies on several occasions to discuss a range of issues. I also maintain close contact with the National Assembly for Wales, which has a key role to play in encouraging the development of integrated transport networks. I know that Sue Essex, the Assembly's Secretary for Planning, Environment and Transport, has had numerous meetings with the train operating companies and has issued guidance to those bidding for the Wales and Borders franchise, setting out the Assembly's aspirations for rail services in Wales.