I much appreciate all the posts in the "Greater Western" area of the site ... though I myself haven't been too active with a frantic work schedule (which include a lot more lifts to run to and from Chippenham, Trowbridge and Westbury to pick up / drop off customers!)
I have to say "what a balls up" about the new Bristol based service level / timetable for short and middle distance trains. Or if it's not a balls up, but carefully planned with the issues it would raise known then their could be deeper and more sinister forces at work.
Dr. Andrew Murrison (Westbury) (Con): Does the Minister share my concern that on the morning of 9 December, Trowbridge station ticket office had to spend more time issuing refunds for GWR train services than it did issuing tickets? Does he agree that that is indicative of the changed timetabling and rolling stock reductions over which he has presided and which have caused cattle-truck chaos across the country, but especially in the south?
Mr. Harris: I am unaware of the specific problems affecting the hon. Gentleman?s constituents. When a new timetable starts, there is always a period in which passengers, especially those who travel every day, have to try to get used to it. However, I am convinced that the new timetable and franchises coming on stream in the next couple of years will introduce new rolling stock and improve the service for everyone travelling on it. I remind the hon. Gentleman that as of today we have the youngest rolling stock of any railway in Europe."
Mr Harris comes across as arrogant and unaware of First's franchise and plans and the issuses in the area. He could - so easily - redress that balance by actually looking into our area and not JUST there avearges over the country, and taking some approapriate decisions. Please, Mr Harris .....
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