Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Transfer of Govia Thameslink Railway’s Services into Public Ownership

01 June 2026 · Department for Transport

Proposed by Heidi Alexander Lab Lewisham East

Transport

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

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At a glance

Key points

  • The transfer of Govia Thameslink Railway's services into public ownership is underway under the Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act.
  • TSGNL will take over operations to enhance performance and passenger experience.
  • Chiltern Railways' services will transfer in September 2026, followed by Great Western Railway's services in December 2026.

Issue summary

The statement addresses the transfer of Govia Thameslink Railway’s services into public ownership under the Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act.

Action requested

The new operator, TSGNL, will implement measures to improve performance and passenger experience. Chiltern Railways’ services are scheduled to transfer in September 2026, followed by Great Western Railway’s services in December 2026, with the rail public ownership programme expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Key facts

  • Govia Thameslink Railway’s services transferred into public ownership on Sunday 31 May.
  • Operations are now run by TSGNL, a subsidiary of DFTO.
  • Nine of fourteen train operators are now in public ownership.
  • Chiltern Railways’ services will transfer on 20 September 2026.
  • Great Western Railway’s services will transfer on 13 December 2026.
  • The rail public ownership programme is set to be completed by the end of 2027.
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