Commons Sense

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Rail Update

22 January 2020

Proposing MP
Grant Shapps Con
Welwyn Hatfield
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Transport
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At a Glance

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.
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