Rail Minister, Kim Howells, agreed in the House of Commons today to meet
members of the Lichfield Commuters Group when they meet in the House of
Commons early next year. In questions to the Department for Transport,
Michael Fabricant told the Minister about the unreliability of trains
travelling on the West Coast Main Line, the infrequency of trains stopping
at Lichfield Trent Valley (just 5 a day down to London with the new
schedule), and the total lack of facilities for the disabled.

Kim Howells said that he would willingly discuss these and other matters
with the Lichfield Commuters Group, which Michael has initiated, provided
that Michael buys him a drink. Michael has agreed to that small condition.

Michael Fabricant says "I am pleased that Kim has agreed to meet up with
Lichfield commuters and we will be arranging a date for some time in 2004 at
the House of Commons. Lichfield has a growing population and a growing need
for good rail connections. As any commuter will tell you, we have problems
with both the West Coast Main Line and the Cross City Line. I want to see
greater reliability and a more frequent service. I hope the Minister will
be able to give us some comfort though I am not optimistic."