The Next Rail Franchise

Part of 1. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport – in the Senedd at 2:10 pm on 7 February 2018.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 2:10, 7 February 2018

We're afraid of nothing. The Member should recognise, though, first of all, that this a world first in terms of the process that we're following. It's not being done anywhere else in the world, it is truly innovative and it's designed to ensure that we challenge experts in the field to bring forward the best possible solutions for Welsh travellers. There is no doubt whatsoever that we have to see a step change in terms of service delivery, in terms of punctuality and in terms of satisfaction, and each of the bidders have been challenged to bring forward within an envelope all of the best solutions based on new and emerging technology, and based on the drive for greater satisfaction amongst passengers.

Now, I can accept criticism for not publishing the full tender documents at this stage, but the reason we can't publish detailed information within the period of invitation to submit final tenders is because we could jeopardise the entire competitive procurement process, which, as I say, is a world first. That's why the Scottish have taken a different approach and that's why the UK Government have taken a different approach. Releasing commercially sensitive information relating to the bidders' business plans could lead, potentially, to a prejudicing of the commercial interests of those companies. However, once the service provider has been appointed, we will make further documentation, including the full tender document, public, and I will be more than happy to face full scrutiny for the future franchise that will be operating on the Wales and borders network. I can say this: Welsh Government is not the cause of the problems on the Welsh network at the moment, but Welsh Government will be the cure.