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<p>We take a very large number of factors into account when determining the most appropriate
way forward when franchises are due for renewal. We undertook just such an assessment
when considering options for the most appropriate approach to providing passenger
rail services during the delivery of the Thameslink Programme infrastructure and the
introduction of new rolling stock. This included balancing the size of the franchise
against the need to ensure effective coordination of all the services on the lines
affected by Thameslink during the construction period. We of course always take into
account lessons learned from practice when looking at similar decisions in the future.</p><p>
</p><p>Regarding the size of the Govia Thameslink Railway franchise, as I made clear
at the Transport Select Committee, it is unlikely the Department will wish to let
such a franchise in the future. The size of the franchise is a factor in this assessment.
However, I believe that with the measures recently announced this franchise should
deliver a better passenger experience in the future.</p><p> </p>
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