Words in [single square brackets] included hyperlinks in the original document
Words in [[double square brackets]] are editorial additions or corrections
Words in [[[triple square brackets]]] indicate embedded images or graphics in the original document. (These are not usually archived unless they contain significant additional information.)
Train operators today welcomed moves by the Government to encourage short-term improvements to rail services.
Commenting on Transport Secretary Stephen Byers' announcement of a change in franchising policy, ATOC Director General, George Muir, said:
"The present re-franchising process has stalled. Any proposal which can break through the current blockage is to be welcomed. "In the short term, franchise extensions may help to bring early passenger benefits and some of our members will want to get on with the business of negotiating these as quickly as possible.
"But in many cases, only longer-term re-franchising will deliver the investment to pay for the sort of improvements in punctuality, comfort and safety that rail operators, passengers and the Government want to see. We want to continue to work with Government to achieve that aim."
Ends
For more information: ATOC press office 020 7904 3010
