Branson says Virgin 'wants answers' to bid queries

Virgin Trains has started court proceedings over the government's decision to award a new franchise of the West Coast Main Line to rival transport company FirstGroup.

Speaking from his Caribbean island Necker, Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson said he wanted to delay the signing of the contract so their "major questions" about the deal can be answered.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening has defended the decision to award the contract to FirstGroup, calling it "a really good deal for the taxpayer".