2009 press releases

10th Mar: Government responsible for timetable chaos in local area - Baker

Lewes MP Norman Baker took on the government on the floor of the Commons last night over its failure to provide a long-term vision for the rail network.

Lib Dem Norman Baker slammed the government for adopting an overly centralised approach which has prevented progress in local ar

eas, and called for the re-opening of several rail lines, including the Lewes - Uckfield line.

Mr Baker also attacked the substandard treatment of rail passengers, who have been hit by fare rises and crowded trains, and criticised the government for failing to provide sufficient infrastructure to build a sustainable future for the rail network.

Norman Baker commented:

"We are moving towards a situation in which Department for Transport officials intervene to micromanage in a way that is counter-productive in terms of delivering a good railway.

"We have just seen a new timetable produced for the Southern region that has been catastrophically ineffective and caused a record level of complaints to the train company. That is a direct consequence of the Government's intervention.

"They overruled the preferred timetable from Southern and from Network Rail, which should have maximised journey opportunities for those in Brighton and other areas of the south coast.

"The Department for Transport seems to be continually behind the curve and unable to deal with the problems that manifest themselves until they have been there for some time.

"Rail fares are far too high, and are in danger of getting higher. Overcrowding is also of great concern to passengers. Part of the reason for that is the failure of the government and the rolling stock companies to have sufficient rolling stock."

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