§ Alan SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many train operators are running on a cost-plus basis; and what assessment he has made of the number of train operating companies that are technically insolvent. [114861]
§ Mr. JamiesonThere is one train operating company operating under a franchise agreement which is on a cost-plus basis. Four other train operating companies operate under "management contracts" where they are paid annually on a predetermined budget amount: any variances from budget are at their risk. No train operating companies are technically insolvent.