asked Her Majesty's Government:

What will be the source of the vehicles which First Great Western is to receive for Paddington suburban services. [HL6210]

The Government expect that First Great Western as train operator will lead in the procurement of the additional vehicles, and will therefore be responsible for decisions on their source.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What consideration they have given to the compatibility and interoperability with the existing First Great Western Paddington suburban fleet of new and transferred vehicles for Paddington suburban services. [HL6211]

Discussions are currently taking place with First Great Western (FGW) regarding the introduction of additional vehicles to increase capacity. Upon successful completion of these discussions, the Government will issue a request for proposal. Operational deliverability will be an important criterion in evaluating the First Great Western proposal.