Press Releases for 2005
GREENS WELCOME HIGH SPEED RAIL DECISION BUT WILL OUR RAILWAYS BE SAFE IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR?
20th January 2005Dr Hazel Dawe, Campaigns Officer for Kent Green Party, has commended the decision to make High Speed services accessible to rail commuters throughout Kent. But Kent Green Party remains concerned about two basic problems. First, the Party is not convinced that the record of private train operators justifies having the future Integrated Kent Rail Franchise in the private sector. Why not continue with South Eastern Trains and let it take over the High Speed services? Secondly, other critical Kent rail problems remain to be addressed. Dr Dawe comments:
"South Eastern Trains have improved rail services in Kent but, unlike 4 private consortiums, is not even allowed to bid to run trains in Kent. The poor service record of nearly all private rail operating companies suggests we should be 'rolling back' railway privatization. Whilst Kent Green Party welcomes public access to High Speed Trains from 2009, it remains unconvinced of any need for ticket premiums. Rail ticket prices should be held down as an investment in cutting congestion on Kent's roads.
"In West Kent, connections and services north to south need an overhaul: particularly the Medway Valley line. Similarly, the Ashford-Hastings line needs an upgrade. Given rising population throughout Kent, we must have attractive and sensibly-priced rail services throughout the County. Unfortunately, the Government is still spending money on new roads and ignoring its stated commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions."
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FURTHER INFORMATION: Dr Hazel Dawe on 01233 645167 or 07747 014487. Contact address as above.
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