§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what alternatives to the freight access charges to the rail network he has assessed. [139246]
§ Mr. HillThe structure and level of freight access charges is a matter for the Rail Regulator as part of his approval of access contracts between Railtrack and freight operating companies. The Rail Regulator is currently carrying out a review of freight charging policy.
§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what discussions he has had with Railtrack about the level of freight access charges. [139247]
§ Mr. HillMinisters and officials in my Department meet regularly with Railtrack about a wide range of issues. The level of freight access charges is primarily a matter for the Rail Regulator to consider in exercising his function to approve access contracts between Railtrack and the freight operating companies.