Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent (a) discussions and (b) meetings his Department have held with (a) First Group and (b) MTR Crossrail on adjustments to the Central London Employment Mechanism provision within the South Western Railways rail franchise; and if he will make a statement.

Ongoing discussions between the Department and franchisees on the operation of the franchise agreement is vital for ensuring that the contract is effectively managed. First, MTR and SWR have made representation to Ministers and officials in relation to the Central London Employment mechanism. The terms of the Franchise Agreement have been applied.