§ Lord Bradshawasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by the Lord Davies of Oldham on 18 March (HL 1894), whether the renegotiation of the long-term franchise for operating train services on the West Coast Main Line is taking place only with the incumbent; and, if so, how the interests of the taxpayer are being safeguarded. [HL2011]
§ Lord Davies of OldhamRenegotiation of the west coast trains franchise agreement is continuing with the incumbent operator. This is consistent with the terms of the interim agreement entered into by the Strategic Rail Authority and Virgin Rail Group in July 2002. The terms of the renegotiated franchise will be reached through a stringent evaluation procedure designed to ensure value for money for the taxpayer.