MPS’ rail plea

Kent MPS are calling on the government to ensure the next operator of rail services in the South East addresses “dangerously” overcrowded trains and offers better ticket prices.

In an unprecedented move, Conservative MPS have united to make a detailed submission to the government demanding the new franchise from 2018 gives customers a far better service. In a detailed six-page letter to rail minister Paul Maynard, 11 local MPS have set out a list of demands covering all aspects of the franchise consultation, reflecting what they say are concerns from thousands of constituents in recent months.

The MPS, among them Faversham’s Helen Whately and Herne Bay’s Roger Gale, say the lack of rolling stock means trains are routinely overcrowded and that new housing will only make the situation worse.

Their submission states: “Passengers are dissatisfied. With insufficient room to stand at times and with some season tickets at more than £6,000, they feel they are not getting value for money. Already the situation is dangerous, with customers frequently witnessing passengers fainting due to overcrowding.”

Among the four firms bidding for the new franchise is the current operator, Southeastern.