§ Tom BrakeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what amendments to GoVia's proposals for the new South Central franchise have been put forward since Railtrack went into administration with particular reference to(a) start date and (b) levels of investment.[12526]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Strategic Rail Authority and GoVia have not agreed any changes to the Heads of Terms for a new South Central franchise, which was signed on 23 October 2000. However, items relating to Mark 1 rolling stock replacement contained in the Heads of Terms have been brought forward into the current Franchise Agreement. Progress in negotiations on the exact terms of the new franchise is commercially confidential.