To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with British Rail concerning the need to upgrade rail services between (a) Newport and Shrewsbury, (b) Shrewsbury and Wrexham, (c) Wrexham and Bidston and (d) Chester and Wrexham; and if he will make a statement.

I consult regularly with the chairman of British Rail on a wide range of rail issues. However, the upgrading of services is a matter for determination by British Rail.