Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment he has made of the potential merits of an increase in the number of stopping services on the East Midlands Line to Luton Airport.

Further to the previous question (UIN 68732) on this same topic that was raised by the Honorable Member last month, I can confirm that the Department is currently undertaking a process of information gathering to develop the specification for the next East Midlands rail franchise. All options for future East Midlands services are subject to ongoing analysis of the potential benefits and consultation with stakeholders. We are considering the case for additional services to Luton Airport and are working collaboratively with Luton Airport to understand their proposals. Any outcome will seek to secure the best value for money for the taxpayer and the best interests of passengers.

We are due to begin a formal public consultation soon to inform the specification and I would strongly encourage the Honorable Member to make his views known through the consultation process when it opens.