Commuters to get their say

The Government's handling of the rail network will be exposed in a major survey of London commuters organised by the Liberal Democrats.

At least 16,000 rail users will be questioned over the Government's five-year record. The survey, in conjunction with the Greater London Assembly, will put yet more pressure on ministers over the crisis in confidence in rail travel.

Tom Brake, the Liberal Democrat London transport spokesman, said: "This survey is very likely to reveal deep dissatisfaction over the Government's handling of the rail network."

A key line of questioning will focus on whether Mayor Ken Livingstone would do a better job running London's railways as well as the Tube.

Lynne Featherstone, chair of the GLA's transport scrutiny committee, said: "The time has surely come for the Government to hand over London commuter rail to someone who is serious about improving services - Mayor Livingstone's transport chief Bob Kiley."

The survey will cover 15 of London's boroughs and will question a minimum of 16,000 people.