Train companies claim longer contracts equals better service

Date: 30/10/2009

Train companies in Britain are lobbying officials that longer operating contracts would result in better service as a whole.

The Association of Train Operating Companies (Atoc) said 15-20 year contracts would encourage managers to boost investment into rail schemes and improve service.

The Department for Transport spokesman said the government would put passengers first in new franchise negotiations.

He said: "We are constantly looking at ways to further improve our railways and this includes considering improvements to the rail franchising system."

Current rail franchise contracts typically last seven years.
Atoc suggests the opportunities to invest in the rail schemes would improve as longer-term returns would be possible.

Michael Roberts, chief executive for Atoc, said that a reform of time for next franchises allotted, the government can "bring innovation and commercial nous into improving the railways."