Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin believes the government is making significant progress in implementing a more suitable rail franchising programme.

A recent independent report conducted by Eurostar chairman Richard Brown outlined a number of ways in which the authorities can improve train services across the UK.

Mr McLoughlin thinks that recommendations made by Mr Brown have been taken on board and rail passengers will be the ultimate beneficiaries.

"Good progress has been made and we are on course to deliver a franchising programme that promotes a thriving rail industry and secures the best deal for passengers and taxpayers," he commented.

The Department for Transport's franchising system had come in for severe criticism following the farcical handling of the West Coast Main Line contract last year. The government was forced to backtrack on a deal with FirstGroup after the proposals were later deemed to be flawed.

However, Mr McLoughlin is clearly very confident the new programme is far stronger.