MINISTERS faced a growing backlash yesterday over their decision to hand rail privateer First Great Western (FGW) a no-contest extension to its western England and Wales franchise.

Transport union TSSA warned yesterday that the firm is poised to get a green light from ministers to run the contract for another four years from March — amid plans to cut buffet cars and strip managers of their union rights.

Swansea West MP Geraint Davies has tabled an early day motion (798) opposing the deal.