Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Rail update

21 September 2020 · Department for Transport

Proposed by Grant Shapps Con Welwyn Hatfield

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • The UK government announces renewed support for rail services through Emergency Recovery Measures Agreements (ERMAs).
  • ERMAs will operate up to 18 months and replace the current franchising system.
  • These measures introduce a new railway structure with stricter performance targets and reduced management fees.

Issue summary

The statement discusses renewed support for UK rail services through Emergency Recovery Measures Agreements (ERMAs) to aid recovery from the pandemic.

Action requested

These agreements, running up to 18 months, aim to end the current franchising system and introduce a new customer-focused railway structure with tougher performance targets, lower management fees, and better coordination among operators. The measures also pave the way for future rail industry reforms as outlined in Keith Williams’ review.

Key facts

  • Emergency Recovery Measures Agreements (ERMAs) run up to 18 months.
  • Management fees are capped at a maximum of 1.5% of the cost base pre-pandemic.
  • Operators must comply with public health guidance and run near full capacity services.
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