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Transport Update

13 December 2022

Proposing MP
Mark Harper Con
Forest of Dean
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Transport
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At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses ongoing issues with rail services in the North due to driver shortages and industrial action.

Action Requested

Short-term measures include increasing the number of drivers employed by Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express, while long-term plans aim to break dependence on rest day working agreements and establish a more reliable railway system. The minister encourages unions to support these efforts for passenger benefit and economic growth in the North.

Key Facts

  • In July 2022, Avanti West Coast faced a cessation of driver volunteering for rest days.
  • TransPennine Express services are impacted by loss of rest day working and high staff sickness levels.
  • Services have increased to 7 trains per hour on the Manchester-London route.
  • The RMT called off strike action scheduled for December 11 and 12.
  • ASLEF rejected a generous revised offer from TransPennine Express without putting it to members.
  • A meeting with Northern mayors in November agreed on short-term and long-term measures.
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