§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) which bodies he is suggesting to consultees may be responsible for regulating the(a) ticket costs, (b) service levels and timetables and (c) access issues for community railways; [158553]
(2) which organisation he is suggesting to consultees may be responsible for (a) setting and (b) monitoring and regulating (i) maintenance, (ii) operational standards and (iii) safety for community railways; [158555]
(3) what the suggested structures for (a) ownership, (b) management and (c) operational responsibilities are for community railways; [158557]
(4) on which lines he is consulting about whether they should become community railways; and if he will make a statement. [158559]
§ Mr. McNultyThe Strategic Rail Authority published its consultation paper on a strategy for Community Railways on 26 February. The Authority is consulting on proposals to offer much greater community involvement in determining issues for Community Railways. The strategy is aimed at simplifying and structuring their regulation and it outlines options to strengthen local management and to simplify and improve the effectiveness of operational responsibilities on Community Railways. No change is proposed in the current ownership of railway infrastructure by Network Rail, or in the primary responsibilities of the duty holder in respect of safe operation of these railways.
The lines to be consulted upon are listed in the consultation paper. The paper has been sent to MPs with constituencies covering these lines and has been placed in the Library of the House.
§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what sources of(a) public and (b) private funding he plans will be available to Community Railways. [158556]
§ Mr. McNultyCommunity Railways lines form part of larger franchises which already make use of public and private funding. Whatever the source of funding, it is remunerated by the user through fares and freight charges and by the taxpayer through franchise support payments or grants. This will continue to be the case. Community Rail Partnerships currently seek further 1415W local funding support to improve services and facilities, recognising the benefit of such improvements to the local economy and environment.