Wales and Borders Franchise
Transport
Written answers and statements, 11 February 2003
Mr Lembit Öpik (Montgomeryshire, Liberal Democrat)
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport
(1) what requirements his Department has made of companies bidding for the Wales and Borders franchise as to the minimum level of service provision required within the term of the franchise; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what advice his Department has received from the Strategic Rail Authority on the effects on the level of service provided, in terms of (a) frequency of service and (b) capital investment, of a cut in public support of (i) 10 per cent. and (ii) 20 per cent. to the successful bidder for the Wales and Borders franchise.
Mr David Jamieson (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department for Transport; Plymouth, Devonport, Labour)
The Strategic Rail Authority has asked bidders for the Wales and Borders franchise to provide a baseline bid for maintaining services at or around the current level. Bidders are also being asked for options to increase the level of service and to show what can be provided for 10 per cent. and 20 per cent less subsidy. The bidding process is in progress and bids have yet to be submitted. The outcome will be announced in due course.