Matthew has welcomed the decision by the Secretary of State for Transport that he intends to extend the First Capital Connect (FCC) franchise for the Thameslink line.

The franchise will continue beyond the current planned end date of 14 September 2013. The contract includes an option to extend this for 28 weeks, which the Department for Transport (DfT) says it intends to exercise.  FCC are also in discussions with the Government to put in place an agreement for the franchise to continue for a further period of up to two extra years.

As Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on the Thameslink Route, Matthew said: "I am particularly pleased with this decision as it will allow the continuation of the programme of investment in the Thameslink line, which runs through my constituency and serves so many of my constituents on a daily basis.

Soon after being elected I pressured the Government for this investment to go ahead and the project has now transformed a key part of London’s transport network and benefits for passengers are set to continue, including the redevelopment of London Bridge station and introduction of new rolling stock that will pass through the Mill Hill Broadway and Hendon stations.

Using the train myself I know that overcrowding remains an issue but this announcement will allow FCC to work closely with the Department for Transport and their industry partners in order to deliver much needed new capacity and route improvements as quickly and effectively as possible."