Written Question · S1W-29378 · Session 1
What directions and guidance it has given to the Strategic Rail Authority on compensation packages to (a) passengers, (b) train operating c…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive what directions and guidance it has given to the Strategic Rail Authority on compensation packages to (a) passengers, (b) train operating companies (TOCs) and (c) Railtrack for the disruption caused by a line closure; what the process is to gain any such compensation, and whether passengers, TOCs and Railtrack will qualify for any compensation following the recent closure of the Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line at Falkirk.
The answer
There are mechanisms in place under the terms of the current franchise to enable passengers to receive compensation from train operating companies who cancel train services. Where the cancellation is due to action taken by Railtrack, the train operating company can seek compensation from Railtrack.In this particular case, Railtrack decided to close the Edinburgh to Glasgow line at Falkirk on safety grounds following a fire on land adjacent to the railway but owned by a third party. Railtrack may therefore wish to seek compensation for the losses incurred from that third party.The Directions and Guidance issued to the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) on 28 June 2002 for the next Scottish Passenger Rail Franchise require the SRA to develop, among other things, a franchise which will endeavour to improve passenger compensation.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-29378 by reference.