Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what infrastructure improvements by Network Rail had been (1) contracted, and (2) announced, in respect of the East Coast Main Line at the time the contract with Virgin Rail Group and Stagecoach Group for the East Coast franchise was signed; and what precise contractual obligations lay with (a) HM Government, and (b) Network Rail, to ensure the timely completion of those works as part of that franchise.

At the time the Virgin Trains East Coast franchise was awarded NR were developing a package of enhancements to the route that sought to enable the Intercity Express Programme fleet to operate, increase the frequency of trains and reduce journey times for passengers. The infrastructure enhancements on East Coast Main Line were announced by Network Rail in their published Enhancement Delivery Plan, which is regulated by the Office and Rail and Road (ORR).

There are no contractual arrangements between Network Rail and HM Government in respect of these works.