House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Rail Update
22 January 2020 · Department for Transport
Proposed by Grant Shapps Con Welwyn Hatfield
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- Railways Act 1993 contingency measures are being reviewed in response to South Western Railway's financial instability.
- Department for Transport is evaluating responses to a Request for Proposal from SWR's franchise owners and the Operator of Last Resort.
- Decision will be made on whether to continue SWR operations under new terms or transfer to the Operator of Last Resort.
Issue summary
Grant Shapps addresses the financial instability of South Western Railway (SWR) under the current franchise agreement and outlines contingency measures required by the Railways Act 1993.
Action requested
The Department for Transport is evaluating responses to a Request for Proposal issued to SWR's franchise owners and the Operator of Last Resort, aiming to secure continued passenger services on the network. This evaluation will determine whether to continue with SWR under new terms or transfer operations to the OLR.
Key facts
- The Railways Act 1993 requires ensuring continuous rail service.
- South Western Railway's financial performance is below expectations since August 2017.
- Options for contingency include a short-term contract with SWR or transferring operation to the Operator of Last Resort (OLR).
- Keith Williams leads an independent review into railways, questioning the viability of the current franchising model.