House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Rail Update
23 March 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
- Rail operators can temporarily transition to Emergency Measures Agreements for up to six months due to the pandemic.
- Normal financial mechanisms between operators and the government are suspended under these agreements.
- Passengers with Advance tickets are eligible for refunds if they cannot use their tickets due to travel restrictions.
Issue summary
The statement addresses measures to support the UK rail sector during the pandemic by offering Emergency Measures Agreements to train operators.
Action requested
Operators can temporarily transition onto Emergency Measures Agreements for up to six months, suspending normal financial mechanisms and transferring all revenue and cost risks to the government. Passengers holding Advance tickets will receive refunds if they cannot use them due to travel restrictions.
Key facts
- Railways have seen up to a 70% drop in passenger numbers.
- Total ticket sales are down by two-thirds from the equivalent date in 2019.
- Fees for Emergency Measures Agreements will be set at a maximum of 2 per cent of the franchise's cost base before the pandemic.
- Operators can request extensions or early cancellation of these agreements as needed.
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