§ 33. Clive EffordTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what plans he has to increase passenger capacity on North Kent rail services; and what recent representations he has received on this issue. [13586]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Strategic Rail Authority has no immediate plans to increase passenger capacity on North Kent rail services. However, this could be achieved by introducing 12-car operation as part of the Thameslink 2000 project and as a result of possible negotiations to extend the current Connex South Eastern franchise. I am not aware of any recent representations on this issue other than those made by my hon. Friend.