RAIL SERVICES IN THE INNER THAMES VALLEY

Early day motion 334, tabled 15 June 2005 by Baroness May of Maidenhead (Conservative). Signed by 12 members.

That this House recognises the vital role that good transportation links play in the economic and social life of communities in the Inner Thames Valley; expresses deep concern over the current level of services provided by First Great Western in the Inner Thames Valley on both the mainline and on the Maidenhead-Marlow, Twyford-Henley and Windsor-Slough branch lines; notes that the Government's decision to give priority to long distance intercity services has been at the expense of services in the Inner Thames Valley; believes that the vast majority of passengers require regular fast or semi-fast trains rather than slow stopping services; is opposed to the Government's plans to re-designate local branch lines community railways; is concerned by the potential impact that Crossrail could have on mainline services; and calls on the Government to ensure that the specification for the new Greater Western Franchise takes proper account of the needs of the Inner Thames Valley.

Signatures by party: Conservative 9, Liberal Democrat 2, DUP 1.