Thursday 3 October 2013

FGW gets extension but DfT omits the important numbers

Good news for First Great Western!

This from the Department for Transport:

Franchising deal to boost services on Great Western Main Line (GWML)
Rail passengers will benefit from improved services, including greater WiFi coverage, on the Great Western network as a result of a new franchise agreement announced today.

Under the agreement the Government has reached with First Greater Western Ltd (FGW), the company will continue running the franchise to operate trains between London Paddington, the Cotswolds, south Wales and the south west.

The new 23 month franchise is a further sign that the Government’s programme is on-track. It will also enable the continued delivery of vital work to upgrade the line in future, including electrification to help deliver faster, more reliable journeys.
 


Blah, blah, blah...

But of the actual cash to be paid (whether from First to DfT, or more likely from DfT to First) not a word. 


Obviously nothing embarrassing there then!

Good to see DfT's commitment to transparency.