§ Helen JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what progress he is making on improving the rail network on the North of England. [71426]
§ Mr. SpellarThe Strategic Rail Authority's Strategic Plan sets out investment priorities for the network—including the North of England—and identifies how the Authority expects the key targets in our 10-Year Transport Plan to be delivered.
§ Mr. WigginTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when railway tracks and signals will be upgraded to allow Virgin to operate its tilting train. [73853]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Strategic Rail Authority's proposed strategy for the West Coast Main Line would provide for the first major stage of renewal and upgrade work on the line to be completed by September 2004, when the new Pendolino trains will be able to operate at 125mph using their tilting abilities.