HC Deb 18 March 2004 vol 419 c407W
Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has for the future of Network Rail. [162461]

Mr. McNulty

Network Rail is a private company and, subject to its regulatory regime, its future activities are a matter for the company to determine rather than my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) for how long the Government expect to continue subsidising Network Rail; [162462]

(2) what Government subsidies are given to rail operators, other than those which are given to Network Rail. [162463]

Mr. McNulty

The Strategic Rail Authority provides financial support for passenger and freight operating companies as well as to Network Rail, The Department for Transport also makes grant payments to London and Continental Railways Ltd. in respect of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link. Full details of this support is set out in the SRA's Annual Report and in National Rail Trends. Copies of these publications are in the Library of the House.

Forecast future Government support for the rail industry is set out in the progress report on the "Transport 10 Year Plan" which was published by the Department in December 2002. These forecasts are being reviewed and updated as part of the 2004 spending review.