The proposals in this memorandum are likely, therefore, to be generally welcomed. Publicity will be difficult in that a balance will need to be kept between on the one hand alienating CMB and on the other discussing the inadequacies of the Company. It would centre on those areas identified for positive improvement in order to raise the standard of bus services, Particular emphasis will be placed on bus procurement programmes and improved maintenance back-up. It is not intended to say anything in public on :
(a)
the proposal to make the roll forward of CMB's franchise subject to its
(b)
performance; and
XJ
the proposal to ensure that the Company, not the public, should
bear any fines which may be imposed,
as it is felt that such statements could damage CMB's standing still further in the public eye and could thereby make the Company more difficult to negotiate with. In reply to questions it would simply be said that no decision had yet been reached on the roll forward,
22
Any announcement will emphasise the Government's determination to reach agreement with the companies on improvement programmes, and its firm resolve to ensure that real progress is made within a tight timescale.
Advice Sought
23
(a)
(b)
Members are asked:-
to note the steps that are being taken in consultation with KMB in the context of its current fare application to effect further improvements in its performance;
to agree that, as regards CMB, contingency plans should be drawn up as indicated in paragraphs 10 and 11 above and that steps to effect improvements in the Company's
performance should be taken along the lines set out in paragraphs 13-19 above and in the context
of its current fare application; and
CONFIDENTIAL
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