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The Government's decision not to award a new franchise for the East Coast Main Line service and instead to opt for a two-year extension sends confusing signals, rail companies said today.
Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) Director General, George Muir said:
"We understand there are practical difficulties, but on the face of it, this looks like a return to the stop-go investment decisions which have caused so much damage, and which we thought had been ended with the publication of the 10-Year Transport Plan.
"In deciding on this course of action, the Government has inevitably created great uncertainty within the industry. Will decisions ever be taken?
"Stephen Byers recently confirmed his commitment to the 10-Year Plan growth targets. He must provide urgent clarification as to how he sees these being achieved.
"We agree there is a need to deliver some early benefits for passengers, but not at the expense of long-term investment. In short, we need to do both if we are to deliver the sort of railway that people want to see."
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For more information call the ATOC Press Office on 020 7904 3010
