The decision to continue the Virgin franchise on the basis of a management contract suggests that there were all kinds of difficulties in trying to set up a temporary franchise. The fact it will run for two years does mean, at least, that there should be no need for an interim contract, but the fact that it is a concession rather than a franchise does beg the question as to why the system of franchising remains.
And of course, one could ask what happened to Richard Branson’s promise that he would run the line for free until a new deal was signed. Virgin are getting 1 per cent of the revenue, hardly a king’s ransom but neverthess more than nothing.
PS My first mayoral candidacy meeting at Muswell Hill Labour Party last night proved to be a well-attended and lively meeting. I focussed on my transport vision for London and on The feedback from the audience was constructive and will help shape future events.
