FIRST GREAT WESTERN

That this House notes the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport's acknowledgement that the level of service provided by First Great Western is a major cause of concern to him and his Department; further notes that the company received the lowest rating for passenger satisfaction in the most recent Passenger Focus survey; is dismayed that the company was nevertheless permitted to increase passenger ticket prices by more than double the rate of inflation for some types of fares; welcomes the recent announcement of a £29 million investment programme but is concerned that this is not spread fairly throughout the franchise area to the detriment of Cornish passengers; therefore calls upon the Government to ensure that if First Great Western is to retain its franchise it must meet acceptable performance standards before it is again permitted to increase fare prices; and urges the company to review its investment plans to ensure Cornish passengers get a much better standard of service, and a fair share of investment.