Stephen Williams MP fights to keep Waterloo rail service
January 27, 2006 3:19 PM
MP for Bristol West, Stephen Williams has tabled a House of Commons motion asking the government to do all it can to protect the rail service from Bristol Temple Meads to London Waterloo.
The service, which is due to be withdrawn as part of the new South Western rail franchise, is a cheaper alternative to the Temple Meads to Paddington service because it takes a more scenic route via Westbury and Warminster. Stephen Williams does not believe that adequate attempts have been made to sell the benefits of the routes to travellers.
His motion is known as EDM Number 1447 and reads:
"That this House notes with concern the Department for Transport's South Western Franchise Consultation Document which proposes to remove direct rail services between London Waterloo and Bristol Temple Meads; further notes that removal of this route would create a monopoly on rail services from Bristol to London; believes that this would adversely affect residents and commuters in the South West through increased congestion, removal of choice and a significantly increased cost of travel; and urges the Government to ensure that this important service is maintained."
It already has the support of 16 other MPs from all parties, including local Lib Dems Don Foster (Bath) and David Heath (Somerton and Frome).
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