Minister, do you take the train?

Cabinet ministers were put under the spotlight on the railways today when they were asked when they last travelled by train.

Liberal Democrat MP Bob Russell has tabled a question to 17 secretaries of state, inquiring when they last used the rail network described by Peter Hain as the worst in Europe.

The ministers have to give a written reply to the Commons, but their officials may find a form of words which avoids giving an exact date.

Transport Secretary Stephen Byers, who does not drive, has already told the Commons he regularly uses the rail and the Tube system. He also travels by train on the Great Eastern line to visit his mother in Colchester - Mr Russell's constituency. Mr Russell said: "I merely wish to know whether ministers are practising what the Government preaches."

Ministers face even more pressure over trains when at least 16,000 London commuters are questioned over the Government's rail record. Liberal Democrat London transport spokesman Tom Brake said the survey, in conjunction with the Greater London Assembly, "is very likely to reveal deep dissatisfaction".