So who is right?

Chiltern Railways have just released their arguments for the 'Business Zone' approach to travel between Birmingham and London (and vice versa) for passengers who are members of the 'business community'.

As is well known, the 'Business Zone' is Chiltern's re-branding of the former First Class carriage in the ex-Wrexham & Shropshire train sets.Not surprisingly therefore, the emphasis is on the generous leg-room and seat width offered in these carriages, along with the other W&S features of power sockets, WiFi and a dedicated train host.

What has not been carried forward is the Wrexham & Shropshire's emphasis on food. Indeed the £20 supplement on the 'Silver' trains actually gives nothing extra to the Standard Class offering but access to the 'Zone' seats - food and drink has to be purchased. An interesting decision when you consider that a 'full' carriage will generate £600 of revenue per trip... It seems to be an open secret that Chiltern's management was split over this aspect of the Mainline structure, with strong arguments being put forward for at least light refreshments to be included in the Zone supplement.

Nevertheless, the fare difference with the Virgin First Class package is enormous - £115 maximum compared to £240 - and, of course, it avoids the dreaded 'First Class' label for those business travellers whose companies are cost-concious.

Roll on Monday when we can begin to see if Chiltern's reading of the business community is correct...