Rowan Dore mentions a pledge by Govia to replace all slam-door carriages by 2004 (Argus, April 28).

It is the rail regulator who has ordered all such carriages must be replaced by 2004 and that if any are in use after 2002, expensive modifications must be made.

Mr Dore attributes the loss of the Connex franchise to the expressed dissatisfaction of one MP (Ken Livingstone) but as the gift of franchises lies with the Strategic Rail Authority, it is nave to think it would be so influenced.

He writes that the Thameslink 2000 project incorporates a new road bridge at Borough Market Junction. Surely, he means a rail bridge (track widening).

One must wish the New Southern Railway every success, while recognising not everything can be achieved overnight.

-R F J Turtle, Hawkins Close, Shoreham