To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what information his Department holds on the passenger data taken into account in determining the frequency of direct rail services to and from Manchester Airport. (302043)

[holding answer 26 November 2009]: For English rail franchises the Department for Transport defines a minimum train service, which is reviewed in the light of present and forecast demand when franchises are replaced.

In accordance with the requirements of their franchise agreements, train operating companies collect passenger counts data in order to assess demand and to monitor the rail services serving Manchester airport station. These data are commercially confidential and are owned by the respective train operating companies. The Department for Transport currently holds only partial passenger counts information for rail services serving Manchester airport station.