§ Mr. KaufmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the effect of investment in railway improvements over the next 10 years upon residents of Manchester, Gorton. [167309]
§ Mr. DarlingResidents of Manchester will benefit from the new TransPennine Express franchise, which commenced in February. The franchise secures investment of around £260 million which will include the introduction of a new fleet of 100 mph diesel trains leading to increased capacity, improved service quality and performance across the region. A new northern franchise, which will include local and regional services through Manchester, is out for tender. Work continues on the west coast main line upgrade, which will see a reduction in journey times on services to/from Manchester and an increase in service frequency.