West Coast Rail Franchise Debate

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Department: Department for Transport

West Coast Rail Franchise

Iain Stewart Excerpts
Thursday 6th December 2012

(11 years, 11 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord McLoughlin Portrait Mr McLoughlin
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I think the hon. Gentleman, in a rather convoluted way, has called for the renationalisation of the railways. That is certainly not something this Government will do. If he can convince his Front Benchers that that might be the right way forward, we will be interested to see that development.

Iain Stewart Portrait Iain Stewart (Milton Keynes South) (Con)
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I very much welcome the additional services and carriages that the Secretary of State has announced. In addition, both Virgin and FirstGroup pledged in their bids significant long-term enhancements to services on the west coast main line. Whatever conclusions are reached following the Brown report, will he ensure that these additional benefits are still secured for passengers?

Lord McLoughlin Portrait Mr McLoughlin
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I am sorry, but I missed the last part of my hon. Friend’s question. I know that he, as a member of the Transport Committee, will continue to press for a very good service through his constituency.