WEIR SEEKS ASSURANCES ON EAST COAST RAIL SERVICES

WEIR SEEKS ASSURANCES ON EAST COAST RAIL SERVICES

Speaking during a debate on the future of the east Coast main line in the House of Commons today (Tuesday) SNP Business and Enterprise spokesperson Mike Weir MP has sought assurances that the service would not be downgraded following the nationalisation of the operator.

Mr Weir expressed disappointment that the Minister did not give a specific assurance on the future of the route but welcomed the announcement of a full public consultation on the new franchise.

Mr Weir, the MP for Angus, said:

“While I welcome the announcement of a full public consultation, the Minister’s failure to give a specific assurance on the future of the East Coast service will fuel concerns.

“People and businesses are not so concerned about the structure of any new organisation operating the line as they are worried about the quality of the service that is available.

“The route is hugely important for business and leisure users, and it is essential that the service is not downgraded or disrupted because of operational changes. I commute regularly between my constituency and London on the route, and it is crucial that we have a quality service which offers a reliable alternative to flying.

“It is vital that we have an assurance that, at the very least, the current level of service will be maintained under whoever runs the East Coast line - whether it be a public company or a new franchise holder.

“There are serious concerns on this since it is reported that in talks prior to the government’s decision to take over the line the possibility of cuts in services to save money was aired. If there is a new franchise holder they must not be allowed to cut services - particularly north of Edinburgh.”

“It is absolutely vital that everyone who uses or is affected by the East Coast rail line takes part in the consultation and we ensure that there is no danger to the continuation of, at the very least, the current level of service particularly to those communities north of Edinburgh.

“I will be seeking the views of business and the public to make a submission to the consultation, and I hope to pursue the matter further in the course of a meeting with the Transport Minister Lord Adonis next week.”