§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what cost assessment ha!; been carried out by his Department of the implemental ion of the European Rail Directives package proposed by the EU Commission; and what consultations he has had with(a) the rail industry, (b) the trade unions in the rail sector and (c) elected representatives on their implementation. [168094]
§ Mr. DarlingAn initial assessment of the financial implications of the EC Third Railways Package was included with the Explanatory Memorandum submitted to Parliament on 30 March 2004. This assessment concluded that implementation of certain aspects of the package as proposed by the European Commission could have significant adverse financial implications for sections of the UK rail industry.
My Department has had a number of discussions with rail industry parties about this pack age both before, and after, its publication. In particular. around 30 industry and user representatives attended a seminar held on 2 April. These discussions are continuing. A formal consultation document is being prepared. Comments will be sought from a wide range of parties including trade unions in the rail sector.
The Government's negotiating; position on this package is subject to scrutiny clearance by both Houses. The Scrutiny Committees are currently considering the Department's Explanatory Memorandum. The Department has not received any other representations from elected members on this package.
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