To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport on what date he expects the tram-train pilot project proposed between Sheffield and Rotherham to end; and if he will take steps to reduce the proposed duration of the pilot project. [324592]

The Department for Transport, Northern Rail, Network Rail and South Yorkshire Integrated Transport Authority are working closely as industry partners to ensure the success of the project and following the proposed start of services from 2012 will review operations every six months.

There is no plan to reduce the duration of the pilot. Indeed it is hoped that it will be a success and a permanently useful transport link.