§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on changes in rail performance since May 1997. [104938]
§ Mr. JamiesonRail performance is measured using the Public Performance Measure (PPM). This takes account of both the punctuality and reliability of trains. The SRA publish PPM data each quarter in National Rail Trends. The latest edition, published Wednesday 12 March, gives information PPM from Q1 1997–1998 to Q3 2002–2003. The document is in the Libraries of the House.
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§ Mr. LuffTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement of his policy on minor improvements to the rail network designed to improve reliability of punctuality of services; and how he expects Network Rail and the Strategic Rail Authority to assess the cost and benefits of such minor schemes. [104988]
§ Mr. JamiesonSecuring the development of the rail network is a specific purpose of the Strategic Rail Authority. The Authority's strategic plan, published at the end of January, explains their investment priorities and approach to appraisal. The Authority must ensure that any expenditure from their budget is affordable and provides value for money. As stated in their directions and guidance, the Authority's assessment of value for money should be consistent with Treasury guidance in the green book.