RECONFIGURATION OF THE GATWICK EXPRESS

Early day motion 709, tabled 9 February 2005 by Brian H Donohoe (Labour). Signed by 30 members.

That this House expresses its deep concern at the proposals put forward by the Strategic Rail Authority to reconfigure the Gatwick Express into a stopping service; understands that the decision is being taken in order to increase rail capacity between London and the South Coast, but believes this will have a detrimental effect on both the air passengers at Gatwick Airport and the rail passengers along this route; notes that the rail needs of air passengers are significantly different from those of commuters; believes that introducing a stopping service will increase journey times significantly and increase the number of travellers on an already overcrowded line; further believes that the Gatwick Express is a fantastic service that offers the travelling passenger a journey that is convenient, efficient and reliable; and calls upon the Strategic Rail Authority to abandon its plans to abolish the service in its current format.

Signatures by party: Labour 22, Liberal Democrat 3, Conservative 2, Labour/Co-operative 2, Plaid Cymru 1.