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<p>I recognise the international importance of the HS1 network in allowing high-speed
rail services from London to reach Europe, whilst noting that no international services
currently serve Stratford International station.</p><br /><p>Eurostar, in which the
government recently sold its 40% stake, accesses the HS1 network on an open access
basis and is not subject to the terms of a franchise agreement or a contract let by
government. Government has no power to direct or specify that Eurostar stops at Stratford
International station. A decision made by Eurostar not to serve Stratford International
would be as a result of commercial imperatives and priorities, for example, the potential
revenue derived from customers using the station or the increased journey time which
a further stop would involve. It would not be appropriate for government to interfere
with that decision-making process.</p>
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