Virgin Trains e-petition

Just noticed this:

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/37180

Personally not too sure this will work, especially given the government will be wanting to get the most back from the route and Virgin were outbid plain and simple. Assuming FirstGroup have the financials to deliver can't see them budging. Of course if they don't deliver will the gov't sue them for breach of contract and open it to tender again?

Think Virgin Trains would rebid? or by then would there be too much of the virgin group invested in Virgin Europe Airlines?

Thoughts?

Absolutely no chance of public pressure of this sort changing the result. Although if this event is the catalyst for VS's first foray into the short haul market then it could turn out to be a good thing.

C'mon SRB, how about a flight to belfast next. You know it makes sense. It's that or I have to keep giving my company's money to BA...

C'mon SRB, how about a flight to belfast next. You know it makes sense. It's that or I have to keep giving my company's money to BA...

Aer Lingus?

I don't think the petition will have any impact whatsoever. Last week I learned a bit about what went on... :w

I don't think the petition will have any impact whatsoever. Last week I learned a bit about what went on... :w

And! And! And.............

Still, the petition got widespread media coverage today

It will get a debate. But the thing is, Virgin Trains bid is hugely risky too.

The e-petition now has over 100,000 signatures - the minimum required for it to be considered a debate in Parliament.

I signed it, but more because I believe the franchising system is a mess and needs reviewing, rather than wanting Virgin to retain the ICWC franchise. That said, I would have been happy with the status quo if it came to that.