HC Deb 20 November 2002 vol 394 c184W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport for what reason the franchise for South Central has been reduced to seven years. [81578]

Mr. Jamieson

It proved impossible to agree terms for a 20-year franchise which both the SRA and Go Via found affordable and acceptable. The altered circumstances of Railtrack since the Hatfield derailment had a bearing. The uncertain impact of other rail projects, notably Thameslink 2000, was also relevant.