HC Deb 13 November 2003 vol 413 c437W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the benefits to the travelling public of private sector involvement in the rail industry, with particular regard to(a) safety and (b) punctuality; and if he will make a statement. [137897]

Mr. McNulty

Our priority is to tackle years of underinvestment by working in partnership with the private sector. Network Rail's programme of substantial network renewals, much of which is financed by private investment, will deliver lasting improvements in safety and punctuality for the travelling public now and in years to come. Privately financed train construction has also enabled a major fleet replacement programme which will again benefit passengers as new trains are safer and more comfortable.