by political editor Paul Francis

Thousands of Kent’s rail travellers will not have a say on whether under-fire operator Southeastern should have its franchise renewed, it has emerged.

Transport minister Theresa Villiers says there are no plans to consult with the public over the franchise renewal process - a decision labelled as unacceptable by a senior Kent MP.

Southeastern could be awarded a two-year extension to its contract under the arrangements negotiated with the previous government, but has faced mounting criticism over chronic delays and lack of information during the big freeze.

The government is reviewing the operator’s performance against the terms of its franchise.

But rail passengers will not have an opportunity to voice their views about services and Southeastern’s performance.

Responding to a Parliamentary question tabled by Sir John Stanley, the Tonbridge and Malling MP, transport minister Theresa Villiers said:

"The Department for Transport is currently reviewing Southeastern’s performance against the review criteria and the secretary of state expects to notify the operator of the outcome in due course.

The secretary of state will not be undertaking a public consultation. The terms of the franchise agreed by the previous administration require the secretary of state to offer an additional two years to Southeastern, at the price agreed in 2005, if it passes the continuation review."

Sir John said: "That is unacceptable. I am opposed to the franchise being extended to Southeastern for a further two years. I want the line opened up to other bidders and to see what they have to offer and what they are seeking in terms of fares. I want to see others come forward to see if we can get a better deal."

The government says it expects an announcement to be made about whether Southeastern will have its franchise renewed "in due course."

Meanwhile, Southeastern’s performance figures that meant it has not had to compensate season ticket holders are to be independently audited by the University of Sheffield.

The company narrowly passed its threshold of 82 per cent target, which meant season ticket holders were denied a five per cent discount.