ANGUS MP Mike Weir has pressed transport ministers as to the timescale for the promised public consultation on the shape of the new franchise for the East Coast rail line.
He raised the matter at Transport Questions, asking specifically when the public consultation will take place, and was disappointed with the lack of detail in the answer.
Mr Weir said afterwards it was vital that there was a full public consultat
ion.
He continued: "Lord Adonis, the Transport Secretary, has stated that there will be a full consultation led by Passenger Focus on the shape of the new franchise prior to it being put out for tender next year.
"Unfortunately there is no sign that this consultation is taking place.
"I am concerned that the transport minister did not appear to know about any public consultation when I raised the matter in the House of Commons.
"It is absolutely vital before any new franchise offer is made that the views of users of the line are taken into account. The east coast rail link is a vital economic asset to Angus, and particularly to Arbroath and Montrose."
Mr Weir concluded: "If it is still the intention to offer a new franchise in the first half of next year then the UK government must get on with the consultation as a matter of urgency."
He stated that he will be contacting Lord Adonis direct to seek clarification of the position.
