§ Mr. Ben ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the franchising process for Merseyrail; and what progress has been made. [68205]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe refranchising process for Merseyrail Electrics is currently being run jointly by the Strategic Rail Authority and Merseyside Passenger Transport Executive. Six bidders successfully prequalified for the competition. Initial bids are due on 12 July.
§ Mr. Ben ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on rolling stock replacement on Merseyrail. [69120]
§ Mr. JamiesonProposals for rolling stock replacement on the Merseyrail Electrics network will be considered as part of the franchise/local concession replacement process currently under way.