A DECISION by the Department for Transport (DfT) to award the East Midlands rail franchise to Abellio in the face of the disqualification of incumbent Stagecoach could have far reaching effects on rail franchising. The decision could lead to the Virgin Trains name disappearing, company founder Sir Richard Branson has admitted. The surprise announcement by the DfT on April 10 not only confirmed the disqualification of Stagecoach, but additionally barred them bidding for the South Eastern franchise with partner Alstom, and also the lucrative West Coast Partnership franchise with partners Virgin and SNCF.
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