Train Operating Companies

HC Deb 21 January 2002 vol 378 cc576-7W

Mrs. May

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what assessment he has made of the impact of the European Council's Broad Guidelines of the Economic Policies of the Member States and the Community on the future structure of the rail industry, with particular reference to the number of train operating companies. [29120]

Mr. Byers

The Government's policies for the railway industry, including those on rail passenger service competition and franchising, are consistent with the recommendations in these broad guidelines.