Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about contractual incentives to increase rail usage.
What contractual incentives has the Department agreed with train operating companies to encourage more people to use rail services?
Under current contracts, operators earn a fee linked to performance on punctuality, reliability, service quality, customer satisfaction, and revenue growth. The Department is looking to introduce stronger incentives for growing rail patronage under the new passenger service contract development.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not specify concrete contractual incentives or a timeline for implementation.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquires about the Department's stance and plans to promote open access rail services.
My hon. Friend knows my enthusiasm for open access services which bring competition and innovation, benefiting customers by raising standards. Does he share this enthusiasm? How will he be promoting these services?
The Secretary of State and I share the hon. Friend's enthusiasm for open access services, which were authorised at the end of last year with Grand Union Trains running between London and Carmarthen. The Department is committed to getting more operators into this market.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer lacks specific measures or timelines for promoting open access services beyond mentioning the authorization of a new operator.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP seeks information on how the Department can collaborate with Translink and the Northern Ireland Assembly to promote greater use of rail services.
Encouraging more people to use rail services is about accessibility, availability, and park-and-ride schemes. Has there been any opportunity to share knowledge with Translink and the Northern Ireland Assembly?
While these matters are devolved, I am keen to learn from best practice and ensure all parts of the UK can learn from each other. Meeting the hon. Gentleman for discussion would be ideal and visiting operators in Northern Ireland could help.
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Assessment & feedback
The response does not provide concrete plans or actions for sharing practices with Translink or the Northern Ireland Assembly, instead suggesting meetings without specific commitments.
Suggestions Of Future Discussions
Response accuracy