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LONDON? March 27 (Xinhua) -- MTR? the company that runs the Hong Kong metro system? was named on Monday as a partner in a new consortium to run one of the major inter-city rail franchises in Britain.


MTR and rail operator FirstGroup have been awarded a contract to operate one of the busiest rail routes in London? serving towns and cities in the southwest of England.


A new company? First MTR South Western Trains Limited? will use the experience of MTR to deliver smooth and rapid journeys for passengers travelling around London's suburban network? said the Department for Transport (DfT).


It is the first franchise awarded since Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling set out his vision for the future of the railways which involves the biggest investment in rail services across Britain since the Victoria era. The contract also marks a new era in work between train operators and Network Rail? said the DfT.


Currently? train operating companies work separately from Network Rail? which is responsible for track and rail infrastructure.


Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: "First MTR South Western Trains Limited will deliver the improvements that people tell us they want right across the South Western franchise area."


"Faster journeys will be delivered through a consistent fleet of new suburban trains offering a regular? metro-style service. Passengers can look forward to more space? ensuring that the railway can support London's growth."