THE RMT union has greeted FirstGroup's promises to invest heavily in new TransPennine Express trains with scepticism.
"The proof of the pudding's in the eating," said Stan Herschel, regional organiser of the union, speaking after it was announced that a consortium comprising First and Keolis was to be awarded the eight-year franchise to run the flagship service.
The Strategic Rail Authority said that under the consortium's bid, there would be an investment of £260 million on better services, including the replacement of current operator Arriva's entire fleet of trains with 100mph diesel multiple units.
Mr Herschel said: "It's probably going to be a new company, but the same old rubbish. The railways should be brought back into public ownership.
"However, I am looking forward to meeting FirstGroup to discuss the whole situation over wages and conditions."
Updated: 11:05 Friday, August 01, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article