"I am disappointed in National Express and their decision to walk away from their commitment to provide train services on the East Coast Main Line, letting down their passengers and loyal and hardworking staff."

"I very much welcome the Transport Secretary's swift and decisive action to protect the travelling public and keep trains running - by taking these steps the Government has ensured that all services will continue without disruption and all tickets will be honoured."

"My priority in the coming weeks will be pressing to get the Lincoln - London service included in the new East Coast Main Line franchise and when the bidding process starts to make a strong case to the train operating companies as I, supported by other key players in Lincoln, have successfully done before. I have already met with the Rail Minister to press the case for people in Lincoln."

"I will not let National Express's failure deter all of us who fought hard to get the Lincoln- London rail link up and running and I am determined to use the re-opening of the tender for the East Coast Main Line franchise as an opportunity to improve services for our city."