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The Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024 - Clause 2: Future provision of services
03 September 2024
Lead MP
Helen Whately
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
EconomyTransport
Other Contributors: 39
At a Glance
Helen Whately raised concerns about the passenger railway services (public ownership) act 2024 - clause 2: future provision of services in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Amendment 18 proposes to require the Secretary of State to report on the impact of prohibiting franchise extensions and new franchises under section 25A. The amendment aims to ensure that Parliament is informed about the anticipated and actual consequences of such prohibitions, allowing for a better understanding of their implications on railway services.
Helen Whately
Con
Faversham and Mid Kent
The amendment calls for the Secretary of State to submit reports on both anticipated and actual impacts of prohibitions on franchise extensions and new franchises. The aim is to ensure informed parliamentary decision-making through transparent reporting.
Nadia Whittome
Lab
Nottingham East
Critiques the amendment as ideologically driven, arguing that privatisation has led to failure and increased costs for passengers while benefiting private companies. Emphasises public opposition to railway privatisation.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
Points out the Labour Party's long-standing work on this issue, criticising the notion that changes have been rushed. Argues that privatisation has led to billions of pounds being subsidised for foreign railway systems, suggesting it is counterproductive.
Grahame Morris
Lab
Easington
Cites improvements in services after TransPennine Express was brought back into public sector operations, highlighting reduced cancellations and improved performance metrics compared to the previous year.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
Challenges the shadow Secretary of State's criticisms of the public sector, noting a lack of scrutiny during privatised operations. Emphasises public support for railway nationalisation and argues that Labour was elected on this pledge.
Caroline Nokes
Con
Romsey and Southampton North
During her speech, Caroline Nokes was interrupted by Louise Haigh, who questioned whether Ms. Nokes had spoken to her predecessor about the value of reforms he pursued as Secretary of State. This intervention implied that previous reforms might have been insufficient or even detrimental.
Louise Haigh
Lab
Sheffield Heeley
[INTERVENTION] Louise Haigh questioned Caroline Nokes about her predecessor's efforts and implied that previous reforms may have been less effective than claimed, particularly in light of railway strikes and the overall state of the rail system.
Graham Stringer
Lab
Blackley and Middleton South
Mr. Graham Stringer argued against the original privatisation of the railways, citing a National Audit Office report that indicated it was a failure based on the criteria used at the time. He also highlighted how profits had been transferred to other systems abroad and criticised the lack of investment in roads, which indirectly led to increased rail passenger numbers.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Proposes amendments to ensure annual reports on public sector contracts, establish an independent review body, and allow local authorities more control over rail services. Argues for transparency in nationalisation processes, improved fare systems, and faster delivery of passenger benefits.
Christine Jardine
Lib Dem
Edinburgh West
Intervenes to support the need for immediate improvements like addressing ticketing issues despite being agnostic on nationalisation.
Derby North
Supports procurement reform through amendment 7, focusing on long-term stability in rail manufacturing. Discusses job creation at Alstom Derby and the importance of consistent funding to prevent boom-and-bust cycles.
Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey
Welcomes the Bill but proposes amendment 6 to address excessive profits taken by ROSCOs. Calls for reinvestment of these funds in railways and suggests future legislation on ROSCO regulation.
Grahame Morris
Lab
Easington
Morris supports ending private sector dominance and calls for greater public control over railways, arguing that foreign governments are profiting from British rail subsidies. He also questions whether Great British Railways will have the option to purchase rolling stock directly instead of leasing through ROSCOs, suggesting a not-for-profit financier like Eurofima could save taxpayers money.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
[INTERVENTION] Andy McDonald agrees with Morris's stance, stating that it is absurd for a nation state to be unable to run its own railway system. He criticises the privatisation of railways as being 'a privatisation too far.'
Siân Berry
Green
Brighton Pavilion
Berry supports the principle of the Bill and proposes amendments to leave open opportunities for elected devolved bodies to set up companies that could bid to run railway services. She argues this aligns with a trend towards more public sector devolution.
Abtisam Mohamed
Lab
Sheffield Central
Emphasised her commitment to community empowerment, localism, climate action, affordable housing, education, and multiculturalism. She highlighted her background in overcoming personal barriers and her work to support underprivileged communities.
Wendy Morton
Con
Aldridge-Brownhills
Supports amendments aimed at introducing stricter scrutiny, accountability and transparency in public ownership of rail services. Expresses concern about arbitrary transfer of franchises based on chronological franchise date rather than performance. Emphasises the importance of linking managerial pay to performance targets and innovative practices. Cites concerns over resource allocation for the operator of last resort and investment decisions under new model. Supports open access operators while highlighting need for fair contract awarding mechanisms. Urges reform of terms and conditions as crucial for rail stability.
Julia Buckley
Lab
Shrewsbury
Supports the introduction of Great British Railways and public ownership of trains. Argues that it will significantly benefit Shrewsbury, which currently lacks robust public transport services. Highlights inadequate bus services with over 5,000 routes cut since 2010 and emphasises the need for a Sunday service or a bus after 6 pm to support young people and night-time economy. Envisages positive impacts from Midlands Connect’s plans to electrify train route between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton.
Sorcha Eastwood
Alliance
Lagan Valley
Eastwood highlights the need for public railway investment and reform, particularly relevant to her constituency of Lagan Valley. She notes the importance of reopening lines like the Knockmore line. Emphasises that austerity measures have failed communities and there is a need for transformative investment in services.
Paul Waugh
Lab Co-op
Rochdale
Paul Waugh supports the Railways Bill, emphasising its promise of real change and making people's lives better. He highlights Rochdale's long history of community cooperation and resilience, and the importance of public services such as the NHS. He also criticises misinformation and the rise of extremism in discourse.
Charlie Dewhirst
Con
Bridlington and The Wolds
Charlie Dewhirst argues against the privatisation of railways, noting that while it was necessary due to inefficiencies in British Rail, genuine competition from open access operators has led to better services. He criticises the legislation for putting open access operators under threat and failing to provide specific guarantees, which discourages investment and expansion. He emphasises that the bill is rushed and ideological, with no incentive for a reborn British Rail to deliver cheaper and better services.
Paul Davies
Lab
Colne Valley
Paul Davies supports the Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Bill, stating it will kick-start economic growth and accelerate towards net zero. He draws on his upbringing in Wales to emphasise community values and collective support, advocating for initiatives that retain wealth locally and strengthen communities. Davies highlights the vibrant community spirit in Colne Valley with various festivals, sports clubs, local businesses, and support groups.
Calum Miller
Lib Dem
Bicester and Woodstock
Mr Calum Miller gave a maiden speech, focusing on the environmental issues in his constituency, particularly river pollution caused by Thames Water’s sewage spills. He also highlighted concerns about railway improvements and the planned growth of towns such as Bicester, Eynsham, and Kidlington, emphasising the need for sufficient infrastructure alongside new housing developments. Additionally, he acknowledged the vibrant community spirit and contributions made by local residents in various roles.
Graeme Downie
Lab
Dunfermline and Dollar
Made his maiden speech, focusing on the history and heritage of his constituency. He paid tribute to previous MPs and highlighted local landmarks such as Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline Abbey, and Rosyth dockyard. Emphasised the importance of military bases like HMS Caledonia for national security and economic stability. Also discussed the legacy of Andrew Carnegie in promoting industry, innovation, and education. Mentioned concerns about poor rural transport infrastructure and expressed support for ending the injustice of the mineworkers’ pension scheme.
Rebecca Smith
Con
South West Devon
Introduced herself and highlighted key issues affecting South West Devon such as railway improvements, transport needs, and local community concerns. She also touched on her personal interests including work with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and care system advocacy.
Jennifer Craft
Lab
Thurrock
Craft thanked her predecessors and expressed pride in being Thurrock's first MP. She highlighted Thurrock’s history and its role as a commuter hub to London, emphasising the importance of public ownership for better rail services and value for taxpayers. She also shared her personal journey as a mother of a child with Down syndrome, which motivated her commitment to improving lives through public service.
Olly Glover
Lib Dem
Didcot and Wantage
Glover supported amendment 20, proposing an independent body for scrutiny and transparency in the new train operating contracts. He noted historical issues with both public and private sector management of rail services and called for better quality and accountability. Glover also highlighted local rail service problems affecting his constituents and urged for necessary infrastructure investments.
Jonathan Hinder
Lab
Pendle and Clitheroe
Jonathan Hinder, newly elected Labour MP for Pendle and Clitheroe, supports the Bill on taking railways into public ownership. He highlights the poor rail service in his constituency, noting that the Clitheroe to Manchester train takes an hour and 20 minutes for a mere 30 miles and is unreliable. He argues that public ownership of railways is necessary to create a reliable, well-integrated railway system and reduce regional inequality through serious investment in infrastructure such as short rail links.
David Smith
Lab
North Northumberland
Emphasises the importance of public ownership of railways, highlighting his constituency's reliance on the east coast main line. He supports the idea of public service and mentions historical figures who have fought for public good. Argues that transport infrastructure should serve the common good rather than private benefit.
Katrina Murray
Lab
Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch
She emphasises the importance of public transport in her constituency, citing examples such as the lack of services on Sundays and bus cancellations. She also highlights the need for an integrated system based on public need rather than profit.
Hendon
Supports bringing the railways back into public ownership to place passengers at the heart of the rail system and ensure value for money. Emphasises the importance of getting railway management on a sound footing, citing his small majority as a reminder of who he serves. Mentions his family's history during World War II to highlight the theme of 'small margins' and the importance of compassion and courage. Discusses Hendon's diverse communities and their contributions. Addresses poverty issues in Colindale and Burnt Oak, pledging to use experience from business and government roles to deliver change for constituents.
Rachel Taylor
Lab
North Warwickshire and Bedworth
Supports the Bill, which aims to bring trains back under public control, generate investment in stations, and improve accessibility for disabled passengers. She highlights her constituency's struggles with multiple train operators causing confusion and disruption. Additionally, she expresses support for HS2 improvements and local transport issues.
Helen Whately
Con
Faversham and Mid Kent
Questions whether public ownership will expose government to liabilities previously held by private operators. Proposes independent reports on costs of contracts awarded to public sector operators, annual reporting on performance, and independent monitoring of financial and operational performance.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Suggests discussions about local authorities entering into franchising agreements in the future. Proposes additional procedural steps before contracts are awarded to public sector operators.
Kieran Mullan
Con
Bexhill and Battle
Critiques rushed approach of Bill Committee without full benefit of evidence sessions. Highlights lack of evidence for effectiveness of nationalisation, citing ASLEF's actions and performance statistics indicating no clear difference between public and private operators.
Charlie Dewhirst
Con
Bridlington and The Wolds
Maiden speech highlighting tourist credentials of his constituency, passionate about representing pigs and lobsters. Supports the need for accountability and transparency in railway operations.
Rebecca Smith
Con
South West Devon
Maiden speech proud of history and beauty of her constituency, speaks about experience working with War Graves Commission and interest in foster caring. Supports the need for local involvement and accountability.
Louise Haigh
Lab
Sheffield Heeley
The Government's position is to rebuild Britain by taking decisive action on the railways. The Bill fulfills a manifesto commitment, ending 30 years of privatisation and focusing on public ownership for passenger benefits. Immediate advantages include improved service quality, reduced management fees, and better accountability through mechanisms like shadow Great British Railways.
Helen Whately
Con
Faversham and Mid Kent
The Conservative MP argues that while nationalisation is necessary, the current Bill lacks safeguards for passengers and taxpayers. Concerns include the lack of an independent pay review body to control excessive union demands and a rushed legislative process that may undermine public trust.
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