West Coast Main Line

Debate between Lord McLoughlin and David Wright

Monday 15th October 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

One of the interesting things that I have seen since franchising began, and in how these franchises are being worked on, is the engagement with local stakeholders in local communities. They have all come forward with suggestions and ideas, a number of which can be incorporated in the franchise agreements.

[David Wright (Telford) (Lab)]

There is real concern in Shropshire that the interim arrangements that the Secretary of State has put in place will mean that we will not get back a direct service to London. Will he confirm that when he looks again at the franchise process at the end of his interim arrangement—however long that may last—he will write in services to Shropshire?

[Mr McLoughlin]

I will certainly listen to representations. I know that I will get many.