KEETCH GETS ASSURANCE ON DIRECT LONDON TRAINS

11.00.00am GMT Fri 3rd Dec 2004

Hereford's Lib Dem MP Paul Keetch has received an assurance from the Government that "minimum levels" of service for a direct link between Hereford and London will be maintained by First Great Western.

Transport Minister, Tony McNulty, has told Mr Keetch in a written Parliamentary Answer that under its franchise with the Strategic Rail Authority, First Great Western has to provide a minimum of one journey either way direct between Hereford and London. The outward journey from Hereford must arrive in London before 10am, and the return departs from London no earlier than 5pm.

"I am glad that the Government has confirmed this minimum requirement for direct services exists and provides an assurance that the service will not be drawn down," Mr Keetch said.