To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many speed restrictions are currently enforced on the railway line between Paddington and Plymouth; how long each speed restriction has been in force; how much longer each will be in force; what is the reason for each speed restriction; what steps are being taken to expedite repairs; and if he will make a statement. [34456]

Railtrack informs me that the total number of speed restrictions currently in force is 16. The restrictions have been in place between one and 15 months. The restricted speeds range from 20 to 60 mph and in each case the reason for the restriction is the condition of the track.Railtrack has a programme of maintenance and renewal in place to restore the original line speeds. Repair work for each restricted track section is in the hands of local maintenance and track renewal units.