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Sir Richard to challenge rail changes
CHallenge: Sir Richard Branson
Sir Richard Branson will put his case for retaining Virgin Trains’ West Coast main line franchise, which runs through Lancashire, to MPs on Monday.
The House of Commons Transport Committee will also take evidence from Tim O’Toole, the chief executive of transport firm FirstGroup, at the hearing.
Sir Richard has launched a legal challenge to the Government’s decision to award a new West Coast franchise to FirstGroup - ending Virgin’s 15-year management of the London to Scotland line.
Having been beaten in the bidding for the new 13-year franchise, Sir Richard issued a statement describing the bidding process as “insane” and “flawed”.
Mr O’Toole countered by saying FirstGroup’s plans for the line, with improved services, and more seats, were deliverable.
The Government announced that due to Virgin’s challenge the West Coast contract with FirstGroup had not yet been signed.
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Weather for Preston
Saturday 18 May 2013
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 7 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 25 mph
Wind direction: West
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 10 C to 16 C
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