Active Announced in the King's Speech on 13 May 2026. 386 events
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Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill

The King's Speech 2026 transport bill to establish Great British Railways and deliver passenger-focused rail reform.

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2026

262 events
7 Jul 2026 | Bill stage Department for Transport linked

Railways Bill

Second Reading 16:14:00 Moved by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill: That the Bill be now read a second time. Scottish and Welsh legislative consent sought . The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill) (Lab): My …

▤ View Bill · ↗ Parliament
11 Jun 2026 | Bill stage Department for Transport linked

Railways Bill

First Reading 14:43:00 The Bill was brought from the Commons, read a first time and ordered to be printed.

▤ View Bill · ↗ Parliament
10 Jun 2026 | Bill stage Department for Transport linked

Railways Bill

Consideration of Bill, as amended in the Public Bill Committee [Relevant documents: Eighth Report of the Transport Committee of Session 2024-26, Railways Bill, HC 1472, and the Government response, HC 1836.] New Clause 48 Tax consequences of transfer schemes “(1) …

▤ View Bill · ↗ Parliament
14 May 2026 | Bill Department for Transport Network Rail Office of Rail and Road Regulatory Policy Committee Transport Committee Transport Focus evidence

Rail Passengers' Charter Bill

Why linked: Filled the "Passenger charter and service standards documentation" gap via web research

A Private Member's Bill introduced in the 2024–26 session to establish a Rail Passengers' Charter, setting out specific guarantees and targets for passenger rail services and providing for penalties where the Charter is not complied with.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
13 May 2026 | Policy paper British Transport Police Delegated Powers and Regulatory Reform Committee Department for Transport Network Rail Office of Rail and Road Regulatory Policy Committee Transport Committee Transport Focus Context · primary home: Tackling State Threats Bill linked evidence

The King's Speech 2026 – Background Briefing Notes (PDF)

Why linked: Filled the "King's Speech 2026 background briefing notes on rail reform" gap via web research

The full PDF of the King's Speech 2026 background briefing notes from the Prime Minister's Office, containing dedicated section on the Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill (p.75) setting out the rationale for establishing Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
13 May 2026 | Policy paper Department for Science, Innovation and Technology linked direct

Telecoms Modernisation: Critical National Infrastructure Charter

Why linked: British Transport Police is a responsible body for the thread; this CNI charter relates to critical infrastructure protection which may be relevant to rail industry transition and passenger safety frameworks

This document sets out telecoms companies’ approach to protect CNI during telecoms modernisations.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Telecoms Modernisation: Critical National Infra…
13 May 2026 | Policy paper Department for Transport Network Rail Office of Rail and Road Regulatory Policy Committee Transport Committee Transport Focus linked commitment

King's Speech announces Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill

Why linked: The King's Speech 2026 and official briefing notes announce the Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill as part of the government's legislative programme.

The King's Speech 2026 transport bill to establish Great British Railways and deliver passenger-focused rail reform.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ The King's Speech 2026: background briefing not… (129pp)
8 May 2026 | Guidance Department for Transport DfT Operator Limited linked direct

Great British Railways and the public ownership programme

Why linked: DfT guidance page (May 2026) tracking the GBR and public ownership programme — directly operationalises the Bill

Updates on the programme to transfer rail services into public ownership and establish GBR as the body responsible for passenger services and infrastructure.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
7 May 2026 | Research House of Lords Library linked direct

King's Speech 2026: Transport

Why linked: King's Speech 2026 Transport briefing that will address the transport bill agenda including Great British Railways establishment, directly named in thread summary as King's Speech 2026 transport bill context.

Type: Lords Library Note (LLN-2026-0021) This briefing explores what announcements the government could make in the King’s Speech on 13 May 2026 about transport.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ LLN-2026-0021.pdf
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has considered alternatives to the staff travel pass for Brighton and Hove Buses and Metrobus staff for use on the GTR network.

Why linked: Question about staff travel pass alternatives for bus and rail operators (GTR network); relates to passenger-focused rail service operations during GBR implementation

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has considered alternatives to the staff travel pass for Brighton and Hove Buses and Metrobus staff for use on the GTR network.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, on what grounds was the decision taken to terminate staff rail pass, the reciprocal travel arrangement between Govia Thameslink Railway and the local bus…

Why linked: Question about staff rail pass termination affecting Govia Thameslink Railway operations; relevant to passenger rail franchise and operational reform under GBR transition

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, on what grounds was the decision taken to terminate staff rail pass, the reciprocal travel arrangement between Govia Thameslink Railway and the local bus operators Brighton & Hove Buses and Metrobus, when …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking under GBR to increase cross border rail connections, such as the Wrexham-Shropshire-Midlands Railway.

Why linked: Direct question about GBR (Great British Railways) implementation regarding cross-border rail connections, explicitly within the interpreted scope of the Bill's structural and regulatory reform

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking under GBR to increase cross border rail connections, such as the Wrexham-Shropshire-Midlands Railway.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (private meeting) — Transport Committee — 2026-04-28

Why linked: Transport Committee formal meeting (28 April 2026) — committee scrutiny activity in the Bill period

Event type: Formal meeting (private meeting) | Committee: Transport Committee | Starts: 2026-04-28T15:00:00+00:00 | Ends: 2026-04-28T16:00:00+00:00 | Location: The Macmillan Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how competition regulations on state aid are applied by the Office of Rail and Road when assessing applications for Open Access rail services; and what changes are expected following the ORR's move into her Dep

Why linked: PQ on how competition regulations and state aid are applied by ORR under GBR — directly on regulator-Bill interface

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how competition regulations on state aid are applied by the Office of Rail and Road when assessing applications for Open Access rail services; and what changes are expected following the ORR's move …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what expenditure has Network Rail undertaken on public affairs companies, and for what purposes, since 4 July 2024.

Why linked: Written question on Network Rail public affairs spending (April 2026) - scrutiny of key public body (Network Rail) involved in Great British Railways transition

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what expenditure has Network Rail undertaken on public affairs companies, and for what purposes, since 4 July 2024.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the future role of the Railway Benefit Fund under Great British Railways.

Why linked: Written question on future role of Railway Benefit Fund under Great British Railways, directly relevant to GBR governance and transition

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the future role of the Railway Benefit Fund under Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the opportunities presented by Great British Railways to improve access to rail-side infrastructure for mobile connectivity, including by addressing historic barriers related to

Why linked: Written question on GBR opportunities to improve access to rail-side infrastructure, relevant to passenger accessibility and service standards

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the opportunities presented by Great British Railways to improve access to rail-side infrastructure for mobile connectivity, including by addressing historic barriers related to

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
23 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate her Department has made of the current shortage of train drivers, broken down by Department for Transport Operator area, in terms of a) total number of drivers required, and b) percentage shortfal

Why linked: PQ on train driver shortage by region — directly on operational backdrop to the Bill

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate her Department has made of the current shortage of train drivers, broken down by Department for Transport Operator area, in terms of a) total number of drivers required, and b) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
16 Apr 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, for what reason she plans to transfer staff to Department of Transport Operator Ltd prior to the completion of the Railways Bill.

Why linked: PQ on staff transfer to Department for Transport Operator Ltd prior to completion of the Bill.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, for what reason she plans to transfer staff to Department of Transport Operator Ltd prior to the completion of the Railways Bill.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
30 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to protect transport workers a) jobs b) pay c) pensions d) conditions and e) travel facilities in the context of the transition to Great British Railways.

Why linked: PQ on transport workers' jobs, pay, pensions and conditions during transition — directly on Bill staff-transfer issues

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to protect transport workers a) jobs b) pay c) pensions d) conditions and e) travel facilities in the context of the transition to Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the levels of challenges for transport workers in the transition to Great British Railways.

Why linked: PQ on challenges for transport workers in the GBR transition — directly on Bill

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the levels of challenges for transport workers in the transition to Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the establishment of Great British Railways on the statutory duty to consult with the public on any significant change to Schedule 17 of the Ticketing and

Why linked: PQ on impact of GBR establishment on transport workers — directly on Bill

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the establishment of Great British Railways on the statutory duty to consult with the public on any significant change to Schedule 17 …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport Scottish Government linked direct

Better journeys ahead: governments agree framework for Scotland’s rail network ahead of the creation of Great British Railways

Why linked: Government announcement (25 March 2026) of UK-Scotland framework on rail under GBR — substantive operational element of the Scottish framework MoU

New framework strengthens Scotland’s rail decision‑making, protecting devolved powers and delivering clearer, more reliable services for passengers.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport Wales Office Welsh Government linked direct

Better journeys ahead: agreement secured to benefit Welsh passengers under Great British Railways

Why linked: Government announcement (25 March 2026) of UK-Welsh rail agreement under GBR — substantive operational element of the Welsh MoU

New UK–Welsh rail agreement gives Wales a bigger say in services, working together to deliver better and more reliable journeys and with a commitment to providing bilingual customer information.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with (a) Ministers and (b) officials on the (i) the transfer of workers from private Train Operating Companies into the Department for Transport Operator and (ii) the transfer of wo

Why linked: PQ on transfer of workers from TOCs into Department for Transport Operator Ltd.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with (a) Ministers and (b) officials on the (i) the transfer of workers from private Train Operating Companies into the Department for Transport Operator and (ii) the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of including provisions for the protection of transport workers’ pensions during the transition to Great British Railways in the Railways Bill.

Why linked: PQ on transport workers' pensions during transition under the Bill.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of including provisions for the protection of transport workers’ pensions during the transition to Great British Railways in the Railways Bill.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Mar 2026 | Policy paper Department for Transport Welsh Government linked direct

Memorandum of Understanding between Secretary of State and Welsh Ministers: applying the Railways Bill in Wales

Why linked: MoU between SoS and Welsh Ministers on applying the Bill in Wales — implementation document.

Sets out roles and responsibilities of the Department for Transport and the Welsh Government on how Great British Railways and Transport for Wales will collaborate on the running of the railway in Wales.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Memorandum of Understanding between Secretary o… (11pp)
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↓ Memorandwm Cyd-ddealltwriaeth rhwng Ysgrifennydd Gwladol a … (13pp)
25 Mar 2026 | Policy paper Department for Transport Scottish Government linked direct

Framework for a memorandum of understanding between the Secretary of State and Scottish Ministers: applying the Railways Bill in Scotland

Why linked: Framework for MoU between SoS and Scottish Ministers on applying the Bill — implementation document.

Sets out plans for publication of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Scottish Ministers on how Great British Railways may deliver services in Scotland.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Framework for a memorandum of understanding bet… (8pp)
24 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to protect transport workers a) jobs b) pay c) pensions d) conditions and e) travel facilities in the transition to Great British Railways.

Why linked: PQ on protection of transport workers' pay, pensions, conditions during transition — directly on Bill

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to protect transport workers a) jobs b) pay c) pensions d) conditions and e) travel facilities in the transition to Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help ensure that all future Great British Railways workers are covered by collective bargaining agreements.

Why linked: PQ on ensuring all future GBR workers are covered by sectoral arrangements — directly on Bill

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help ensure that all future Great British Railways workers are covered by collective bargaining agreements.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
23 Mar 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Rail Infrastructure

Why linked: Ministerial Statement on Rail Infrastructure (2026); contemporary DfT statement on rail sector direction relevant to Great British Railways implementation

UIN: HLWS1438 My Right Honourable friend, the Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander), has made the following Ministerial Statement. Reset update Today, I am publishing this government’s latest report to Parliament on High Speed Two (HS2).When I was appointe...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
23 Mar 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Rail Infrastructure

Why linked: Rail Infrastructure WMS (March 2026) on HS2 reset — adjacent rail investment context

UIN: HCWS1433 Reset update Today, I am publishing this government’s latest report to Parliament on High Speed Two (HS2).When I was appointed Secretary of State, I was clear that significant change was needed to bring HS2 under control. The history …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
23 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 11 March 2026 to Question 117438 on Great British Railways: Finance, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of publishing details of the modelling, business case develo

Why linked: Written question directly on Great British Railways finance and policy

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 11 March 2026 to Question 117438 on Great British Railways: Finance, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of publishing details of the modelling, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
20 Mar 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport DfT Operator Limited linked direct

DFTO takes next steps towards Great British Railways

Why linked: News announcement on DFTO board appointments for GBR establishment - directly covers implementation

Laura Shoaf and Tony Poulter join the Department for Transport Operator (DFTO) board, helping to set up Great British Railways (GBR).

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
17 Mar 2026 | Policy paper Department for Transport linked direct

Independent review of train operator revenue protection practices: government response

Why linked: Government response to ORR's independent review of train operator revenue protection practices (March 2026) — operationalises the SoS's 2025 acceptance of ORR recommendations on revenue protection under public ownership

Government's response to the Office of Rail and Road's independent review of train operator revenue protection practices.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ ORR independent review of train operator revenu…
16 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with trade unions regarding on the establishment of collective bargaining arrangements under Great British Railways.

Why linked: Written question on collective bargaining under GBR - structural reform of rail operations

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions she has had with trade unions regarding on the establishment of collective bargaining arrangements under Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
11 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 2 March 2026 to Question 115554 on Great British Railways: Finance, whether she plans to publish the (a) internal modelling, (b) business case documentation and (c) analytical assessme

Why linked: Written question on GBR finance and implementation plans publication

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 2 March 2026 to Question 115554 on Great British Railways: Finance, whether she plans to publish the (a) internal modelling, (b) business case documentation and (c) analytical …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
3 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the proposed Great British Railways ticketing website and mobile application will be (a) built upon existing industry retail systems and (b) a newly developed retail platform owned and operated by Great

Why linked: Written question on GBR ticketing website/app - passenger-facing reform

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the proposed Great British Railways ticketing website and mobile application will be (a) built upon existing industry retail systems and (b) a newly developed retail platform owned and operated by Great

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
3 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what statutory role combined authorities will have under the Railways Bill in relation to service levels, timetabling and rolling stock deployment; what mechanisms will exist for regional leaders to challenge o

Why linked: PQ on combined authorities' statutory role under the Railways Bill (March 2026).

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what statutory role combined authorities will have under the Railways Bill in relation to service levels, timetabling and rolling stock deployment; what mechanisms will exist for regional leaders to challenge o

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
2 Mar 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 10 February 2026 to Question 108456 on Great British Railways: Finance, whether (a) internal modelling, (b) business case documentation and (c) analytical assessment underpins the comm

Why linked: Written question on GBR finance modelling and assessment

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 10 February 2026 to Question 108456 on Great British Railways: Finance, whether (a) internal modelling, (b) business case documentation and (c) analytical assessment underpins the comm

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
26 Feb 2026 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of the Office of Rail and Road’s decision not to extend the Rail Transparency Order to cover rail maintenance costs.

Why linked: Written question on ORR decision implications for GBR policy

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of the Office of Rail and Road’s decision not to extend the Rail Transparency Order to cover rail maintenance costs.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
26 Feb 2026 | Policy paper Department for Transport linked direct

Department for Transport’s accounting officer assessment summaries for the Government Major Projects Portfolio

Why linked: Cited by workspace synthesis

Accounting officer assessment summaries for the Department for Transport’s (DfT) programmes and projects in the Government Major Projects Portfolio (GMPP).

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase 1: decision to continu…
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↓ Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) accounting officer assessment … ↓ Northern Powerhouse Rail: Millington to Manchester alignmen… ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) rail: contract award decision for rail s… ↓ Northern Powerhouse Rail: accounting officer assessment sum… ↓ Northern Powerhouse Rail: accounting officer assessment sum… (2pp) ↓ Continuing investment in HS2 Phase 1: accounting officer as… ↓ Continuing investment in HS2 Phase 1: accounting officer as… (3pp) ↓ Lower Thames Crossing: accounting officer assessment (Dece… ↓ A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project accounting officer asses… ↓ National rail contracts - tranche 1 ↓ A12 Chelmsford to A12 Widening: accounting officer assessme… ↓ A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet: accounting officer assessm… ↓ A417 ‘Missing Link’: accounting officer assessment (April 2… ↓ UK second-generation search and rescue aviation (UKSAR2G): … ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Crewe to Manchester: accounting officer … ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Crewe to Manchester: accounting officer … ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase 2a revised delivery arrangements: … ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase 2a: accounting officer assessment … ↓ East Coast Digital Programme: accounting officer assessment… ↓ A303 Amesbury to Berwick Down (Highways England): accountin… ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase One Notice-to-Proceed: accounting … ↓ High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase One: accounting officer assessment… ↓ East West Rail, Connection Stage 1: accounting officer asse… ↓ East West Rail, Western Section Phase 2: accounting officer… ↓ East Coast Main Line enhancements programme: accounting off… (4pp)
25 Feb 2026 | Written question Cabinet Office linked direct

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the answer of 29 January 2026, to Question 107278, on Department for Transport: Official Hospitality, whether the Cabinet Office has issued any guidance on Arm's Length Bodies using public funds to h

Why linked: PQ correspondence with DfT relating to Railways Bill.

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the answer of 29 January 2026, to Question 107278, on Department for Transport: Official Hospitality, whether the Cabinet Office has issued any guidance on Arm's Length Bodies using public funds …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
12 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Rail Transport and Economic Growth

Why linked: Commons debate on Rail Transport and Economic Growth (Feb 2026) – contemporary debate likely covering rail reform and passenger benefits during Bill progression

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
12 Feb 2026 | Debate Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport linked direct

Rail Transport and Economic Growth

Why linked: Commons Chamber debate Rail Transport and Economic Growth (February 2026) — adjacent debate informing Bill scrutiny

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The RNEP should not become an unfunded wishlist: there must be a high bar of viability for projects to be included, and a commensurately high bar for any subsequent decision to remove them from the pipeline. The inclusion and status of projects should be regularly reviewed by the Secretary of State, the Office of Rail and Road and, when established, Great British Railways and the Passenger Watchdog. (Recommendation, Paragraph 71)

Why linked: Committee finding on the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline — relevant to GBR's infrastructure-management functions.

The RNEP should not become an unfunded wishlist: there must be a high bar of viability for projects to be included, and a commensurately high bar for any subsequent decision to remove them from the pipeline. The inclusion and status …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

While the Government insists that the intended relationship between clause 60 and clause 63 is clear, multiple stakeholders disagree. The Bill should be amended to make it clear that the capacity duty does not apply until after an infrastructure capacity plan has been developed. (Recommendation, Paragraph 72)

Why linked: Direct substantive scrutiny material on the Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill itself, raising stakeholder concerns about specific clauses (60 and 63) that require amendment—core legislative scrutiny content.

While the Government insists that the intended relationship between clause 60 and clause 63 is clear, multiple stakeholders disagree. The Bill should be amended to make it clear that the capacity duty does not apply until after an infrastructure capacity …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The UK rail network is a core national asset, supporting its own industrial ecosystem and underpinning broader economic growth and employment. The message from the rail industry has been clear: investment in that asset has too often been characterised by cycles of ‘boom and bust’, with uneven and uncertain funding and procurement putting the viability of employers (including SMEs) at risk and delaying much-needed improvements to the network. The capacity of the railway to flourish under Great...

Why linked: Committee transcript fragment positioning rail as 'core national asset' supporting Bill scrutiny

The UK rail network is a core national asset, supporting its own industrial ecosystem and underpinning broader economic growth and employment. The message from the rail industry has been clear: investment in that asset has too often been characterised by …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Thirteenth sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill (Thirteenth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
10 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Fourteenth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee debate on Railways Bill (Fourteenth sitting) - primary legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † Francis, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
10 Feb 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Thirteenth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Thirteenth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
10 Feb 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Fourteenth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Fourteenth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † Francis, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

We recommend that the Government commission an independent review of the beginning of Control Period 7 in comparison to the beginning of previous Control Periods. The review should also survey the volatility of spend within Control Periods, identify whether this is systemic, and consider whether they could be better managed to smooth the flow of work. It should seek early lessons from the new partnership model being pursued in the Southern region, and consider whether more certainty could be ...

Why linked: Transport Committee findings on Control Period 7 and GBR transition

We recommend that the Government commission an independent review of the beginning of Control Period 7 in comparison to the beginning of previous Control Periods. The review should also survey the volatility of spend within Control Periods, identify whether this …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The RNEP should also be a tool for promoting rail infrastructure investment from sources other than central government. We urge the Government to implement the findings of the Office of Rail and Road’s review of the Rail Network Investment Framework, and in the next iteration of the RNEP, identify projects where private sector investment would be welcome, or could be decisive. (Recommendation, Paragraph 71)

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry on RNEP and infrastructure investment alongside GBR

The RNEP should also be a tool for promoting rail infrastructure investment from sources other than central government. We urge the Government to implement the findings of the Office of Rail and Road’s review of the Rail Network Investment Framework, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The Department should set out in the Long Term Rail Strategy a clear policy statement on its intention to limit the proliferation of rolling stock types. Within two years, the Department and Great British Railways should define a small number of standard train families for use across the national network, to achieve better value for money and an improved experience for passengers, including through more widespread level boarding. These should be deployed and refreshed over successive procurem...

Why linked: Transport Committee recommendation on rolling stock policy within GBR

The Department should set out in the Long Term Rail Strategy a clear policy statement on its intention to limit the proliferation of rolling stock types. Within two years, the Department and Great British Railways should define a small number …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The advent of Great British Railways provides a golden opportunity for decision-makers on the railway to approach investment planning differently. Successive governments must be prepared to commit to reaching a long-term consensus on which investments should be prioritised, and to following through on those decisions. While we accept the legitimacy of different political choices about how to allocate public resources, chopping and changing decisions on infrastructure investment is almost alwa...

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry findings on GBR establishment and industry fragmentation - directly on governance reform

The advent of Great British Railways provides a golden opportunity for decision-makers on the railway to approach investment planning differently. Successive governments must be prepared to commit to reaching a long-term consensus on which investments should be prioritised, and to …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The Long Term Rail Strategy guiding Great British Railways needs to have a timescale of at least 30 years to provide the necessary vision for underpinning shorter-term decisions on specific projects and funding. It also needs to be protected from unnecessary or radical changes of direction that would undermine its value. Significant amendments to the LTRS should require formal consultation with industry and with Parliament. We recommend that the Secretary of State be required to lay the Strat...

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry on Long Term Rail Strategy for GBR

The Long Term Rail Strategy guiding Great British Railways needs to have a timescale of at least 30 years to provide the necessary vision for underpinning shorter-term decisions on specific projects and funding. It also needs to be protected from …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

We want Great British Railways to reach its potential for making unified decisions over track and train informed by expertise in railway systems. We expect political leaders to set its strategic direction and hold it accountable for delivery, but micromanagement would work against the best interests of passengers and industry. The Department must be clear about the level of autonomy it expects GBR to exercise in enhancements planning, and how ministerial oversight will be exercised in a way t...

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry on GBR unified decision-making between track and train

We want Great British Railways to reach its potential for making unified decisions over track and train informed by expertise in railway systems. We expect political leaders to set its strategic direction and hold it accountable for delivery, but micromanagement …

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10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The Government intends that Great British Railways should be a responsible guiding mind: to achieve this, it requires independence and protection from political interference in its day-to-day operations. Clause 7 as currently drafted would permit a future Secretary of State, if so minded, to micromanage GBR through directions. The intention of the current Government that the power only be used sparingly could be reflected in the legislation. (Conclusion, Paragraph 20)

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry on GBR independence and governance structure

The Government intends that Great British Railways should be a responsible guiding mind: to achieve this, it requires independence and protection from political interference in its day-to-day operations. Clause 7 as currently drafted would permit a future Secretary of State, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

There are benefits to unified duties but the Bill is insufficiently clear on how they will operate in decision-making, in particular the weighting to be assigned to each factor. The Office of Rail and Road will enforce GBR’s business plan but is not bound by it. If the Government intends ORR to have regard to detail on how to balance duties that is contained in the business plan, it must put that detail into statutory guidance. (Conclusion, Paragraph 38)

Why linked: Transport Committee scrutiny of unified duties in the Bill

There are benefits to unified duties but the Bill is insufficiently clear on how they will operate in decision-making, in particular the weighting to be assigned to each factor. The Office of Rail and Road will enforce GBR’s business plan …

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10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The reliance of the Passengers’ Council on the Office of Rail and Road to take enforcement action could add complexity and delay to an already complicated system for complaints, enforcement and remedies, and we are concerned that an opportunity to streamline these elements of the railway could be missed. (Conclusion, Paragraph 54)

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry on Passengers' Council enforcement and ORR coordination - passenger protection reform

The reliance of the Passengers’ Council on the Office of Rail and Road to take enforcement action could add complexity and delay to an already complicated system for complaints, enforcement and remedies, and we are concerned that an opportunity to …

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10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The clause 18 duty on Great British Railways, the Office of Rail and Road and the Secretary of State, and the clause 36 duty on the Passengers’ Council, should be amended to require these bodies to exercise their functions in a way that improves accessibility of the rail network. (Recommendation, Paragraph 61)

Why linked: Direct parliamentary query referencing specific clauses 18 and 36 of the Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill relating to duties on Great British Railways, ORR, and the Passengers' Council

The clause 18 duty on Great British Railways, the Office of Rail and Road and the Secretary of State, and the clause 36 duty on the Passengers’ Council, should be amended to require these bodies to exercise their functions in …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

While the role of open access passenger services is a matter for debate, we note that it is the Government’s clear intention to promote greater freight use of the railway. The appeal mechanism for open access decisions set out in the Bill—applying judicial review principles—is overly narrow and jeopardises this aim. The Bill should be amended to give freight operators the ability to appeal access decisions to the Office of Rail and Road on additional grounds that reflect the outcomes the Gove...

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry findings on open access and freight within GBR context

While the role of open access passenger services is a matter for debate, we note that it is the Government’s clear intention to promote greater freight use of the railway. The appeal mechanism for open access decisions set out in …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

While we recognise the fledging status of the UK Infrastructure Pipeline, we are unconvinced of its current usefulness to stakeholders in the rail industry because of its lack of detail at the necessary scale. We ask the Department for Transport to set out how the UK Infrastructure Pipeline will relate to the RNEP, the purpose of each, and where industry should look for the latest and most detailed information. Wherever there are overlapping sources of information, care is needed to ensure th...

Why linked: Transport Committee observation on the UK Infrastructure Pipeline as it relates to rail.

While we recognise the fledging status of the UK Infrastructure Pipeline, we are unconvinced of its current usefulness to stakeholders in the rail industry because of its lack of detail at the necessary scale. We ask the Department for Transport …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

We welcome the provision made in the Railways Bill for a Long Term Rail Strategy: it is long past time that such a vision is set out for the railways. The Strategy must provide a basis for consensus and certainty about long- term investment priorities. If it puts in place stable scaffolding for practical plans and pipelines, the LTRS has the potential to insulate those plans from unnecessary changes of direction or delay, to convey confidence to industry and to bring improvements to the netwo...

Why linked: Transport Committee welcome of the Long-Term Rail Strategy provisions.

We welcome the provision made in the Railways Bill for a Long Term Rail Strategy: it is long past time that such a vision is set out for the railways. The Strategy must provide a basis for consensus and certainty …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

The Department for Transport has previously accepted the need to update and streamline the complex and confusing legal framework for transport accessibility. It would be unhelpful were the Railways Bill to add more complexity to this situation, especially if it did not meaningfully add to practical opportunities for enforcement action while doing so. (Conclusion, Paragraph 67)

Why linked: Transport Committee recommendation on transport accessibility law and the Railways Bill.

The Department for Transport has previously accepted the need to update and streamline the complex and confusing legal framework for transport accessibility. It would be unhelpful were the Railways Bill to add more complexity to this situation, especially if it …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

We recognise the need for structural change on the railways. We support the main purpose of the Railways Bill: to establish Great British Railways as a single organisation overseeing both track and train, and capable of acting as a ‘directing mind’ for the railway. (Conclusion, Paragraph 3)

Why linked: Transport Committee statement on supporting the main purpose of the Bill.

We recognise the need for structural change on the railways. We support the main purpose of the Railways Bill: to establish Great British Railways as a single organisation overseeing both track and train, and capable of acting as a ‘directing …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

Understandably, and as with previous railways legislation, the Railways Bill gives a partial picture of the framework for a new regime under Great British Railways. The Bill is designed to last a long time and is accompanied by various additional documentation. The unpublished documents are important not just for scrutiny, but for confidence throughout the industry. This inquiry has picked up on issues that may be addressed in future documentation, such as issues of accountability and enforce...

Why linked: Transport Committee observation on the Bill providing a partial picture of the GBR framework.

Understandably, and as with previous railways legislation, the Railways Bill gives a partial picture of the framework for a new regime under Great British Railways. The Bill is designed to last a long time and is accompanied by various additional …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked direct

Before the Bill reaches Report Stage in the House of Commons the Department for Transport should publish a comprehensive list, with target dates, of decisions, key documents and planned consultations leading up to the establishment of Great British Railways and in its first year of operation. This should include milestones for consultation and negotiation with the affected workforce. (Recommendation, Paragraph 7) Our scrutiny of the Bill

Why linked: Transport Committee recommendation on publication of decisions/documents before Report stage.

Before the Bill reaches Report Stage in the House of Commons the Department for Transport should publish a comprehensive list, with target dates, of decisions, key documents and planned consultations leading up to the establishment of Great British Railways and …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
5 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Eleventh sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee — Railways Bill (Eleventh sitting), 5 February 2026; substantive Hansard debate on the Bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
5 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Twelfth sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill (Twelfth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
5 Feb 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Eleventh sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Eleventh sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
5 Feb 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Twelfth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Twelfth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
3 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Ninth sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill (Ninth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
3 Feb 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Tenth sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill (Tenth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
3 Feb 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Ninth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Ninth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
3 Feb 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Tenth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Tenth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
29 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Seventh sitting)

Why linked: Hansard for Public Bill Committee seventh sitting on 29 January 2026 — directly on this Bill.

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
29 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Seventh sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee — Railways Bill (Seventh sitting), 29 January 2026; substantive Hansard debate on the Bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
29 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Eighth sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill (Eighth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
29 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Eighth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Eighth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
27 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Sixth sitting)

Why linked: Hansard for Public Bill Committee sixth sitting on 27 January 2026 — directly on this Bill.

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
27 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Rail Infrastructure

Why linked: Commons Chamber debate on Rail Infrastructure (January 2026) — adjacent debate during the Bill's Committee period

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Sixth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee — Railways Bill (Sixth sitting), 27 January 2026; substantive Hansard debate on the Bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, † Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
27 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Fifth sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill (Fifth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
27 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Fifth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Fifth sitting) - legislative scrutiny

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
22 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Fourth sitting)

Why linked: Hansard for Public Bill Committee fourth sitting on 22 January 2026 — directly on this Bill.

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
22 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Third sitting)

Why linked: Hansard for Public Bill Committee third sitting on 22 January 2026 — directly on this Bill.

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
22 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Fourth sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee — Railways Bill (Fourth sitting), 22 January 2026; substantive Hansard debate on the Bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
22 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Third sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee — Railways Bill (Third sitting), 22 January 2026; substantive Hansard debate on the Bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, † Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) † …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
20 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (Second sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee — Railways Bill (Second sitting), 20 January 2026; substantive Hansard debate on the Bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
20 Jan 2026 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill (First sitting)

Why linked: Railways Bill Public Bill Committee first sitting debate; directly on the bill's scrutiny and passage

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
20 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Second sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (Second sitting); parliamentary committee stage documentation for the bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: † Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
20 Jan 2026 | Committee sitting Public Bill Committees linked direct

Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (First sitting)

Why linked: Public Bill Committee: Railways Bill (First sitting); parliamentary committee stage documentation for the bill

The Committee consisted of the following Members: Chairs: Paula Barker, Wera Hobhouse, † Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Matt Western † Argar, Edward (Melton and Syston) (Con) † Caliskan, Nesil (Comptroller of His Majesty's Household) † Conlon, Liam (Beckenham and Penge) (Lab) …

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15 Jan 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Improving accessibility at railway stations across Britain

Why linked: Ministerial statement on accessibility improvements at railway stations - passenger benefit directly tied to GBR commitment

UIN: HLWS1241 This government is committed to improving the accessibility of Britain’s railway and recognises the significant social and economic benefits of doing so. As we move towards the establishment of Great British Railways,?we will provide greater detail of?how...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
12 Jan 2026 | Announcement Department for Transport DfT Operator Limited linked direct

New chairs of Network Rail and DFTO named

Why linked: Government news announcement naming new chairs of Network Rail and DFTO in January 2026 — directly relevant to the institutional stand-up of GBR.

Richard George and Sir Andrew Haines bring extensive experience to help improve passenger experience and operational performance we will see under Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
7 Jan 2026 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2026-01-07

Why linked: Transport Committee formal meeting on Railways Bill 2026-01-07; parliamentary committee inquiry into the bill

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Railways Bill | Starts: 2026-01-07T09:15:00+00:00 | Ends: 2026-01-07T12:00:00+00:00 | Location: The Grimond Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2025

71 events
17 Dec 2025 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2025-12-17

Why linked: Transport Committee formal meeting on Railways Bill inquiry - direct parliamentary scrutiny by responsible body

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Railways Bill | Starts: 2025-12-17T09:15:00+00:00 | Ends: 2025-12-17T12:00:00+00:00 | Location: The Grimond Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
10 Dec 2025 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2025-12-10

Why linked: Transport Committee formal meeting on Railways Bill 2025-12-10; parliamentary committee inquiry into the bill

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Railways Bill | Starts: 2025-12-10T09:00:00+00:00 | Ends: 2025-12-10T12:30:00+00:00 | Location: The Wilson Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
9 Dec 2025 | Debate linked direct

Railways Bill

Why linked: Railways Bill Second Reading parliamentary debate with reference to Transport Committee oral evidence; key parliamentary scrutiny of the bill

Second Reading [Relevant documents: Oral evidence taken before the Transport Committee on 26 November, on the Railways Bill, HC 1472 ; Written evidence to the Transport Committee, on the Railways Bill, reported to the House on 2 December, HC 1472 …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Download transcript (text)
9 Dec 2025 | Bill stage Department for Transport linked

Railways Bill

Second Reading [Relevant documents: Oral evidence taken before the Transport Committee on 26 November, on the Railways Bill, HC 1472 ; Written evidence to the Transport Committee, on the Railways Bill, reported to the House on 2 December, HC 1472 …

▤ View Bill · ↗ Parliament
4 Dec 2025 | Statutory Instrument linked direct

The Railway Byelaws Amendment Order 2025

Why linked: Railway Byelaws Amendment Order 2025 — secondary legislation in the rail regime period the Bill is reshaping

This Order amends the Railway Byelaws which were made by the Strategic Rail Authority in 2005 under section 219 of and Schedule 20 to the Transport Act 2000.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
4 Dec 2025 | Research House of Commons Library linked direct

Railways Bill 2024-26

Why linked: Commons Library Briefing CBP-10386 on the Railways Bill — definitive Library briefing for analysts.

Type: Commons Briefing Paper (CBP-10386) A bill intended to create Great British Railways, a public body which would be responsible for managing most passenger train services and railway infrastructure

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ CBP-10386.pdf
27 Nov 2025 | Announcement Department for Transport DfT Operator Limited linked direct

Alex Hynes named as new CEO of DfT Operator

Why linked: Government news announcement of Alex Hynes as CEO of DFTO ahead of GBR — directly relevant to GBR's operational vehicle.

Alex Hynes appointed CEO of DFTO to lead rail reform, as more operators move into public ownership ahead of Great British Railways launch.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
26 Nov 2025 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2025-11-26

Why linked: Transport Committee formal meeting on Railways Bill 2025-11-26; parliamentary committee inquiry into the bill

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Railways Bill | Starts: 2025-11-26T09:15:00+00:00 | Ends: 2025-11-26T12:00:00+00:00 | Location: Room 15, Palace of Westminster | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
19 Nov 2025 | Government response Building Owners and Managers linked direct

Letter from the Secretary of State for Transport relating to the Government response to A Railway fit for Britain's future consultation, dated 11 November 2025

Why linked: Letter from Secretary of State for Transport on Government response to 'A Railway fit for Britain's future' consultation (November 2025) - directly addresses rail reform policy consultation response contemporaneous with bill progression

Direction: to_committee

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
11 Nov 2025 | Policy paper Department for Transport Context · primary home: Railways Bill Implementation linked evidence

A railway fit for Britain's future: government response

Why linked: Filled the "Government rail strategy or rail reform policy documents that frame the Bill's objectives" gap via web research

The Department for Transport's response to the consultation on the Railways Bill.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future: government …
+6 more
↓ A railway fit for Britain's future: government response and… (105pp) ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future: government response: Br… ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future: government response and… (42pp) ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future: government response and… (214pp) ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future: government response and… (108pp) ↓ Rheilffordd sy’n Addas ar gyfer Dyfodol Prydain Ymateb y Ll… (107pp)
6 Nov 2025 | Research Regulatory Policy Committee linked direct

RPC opinion: Railways Bill impact assessment

Why linked: RPC opinion on the Railways Bill Impact Assessment — independent scrutiny of the IA.

The RPC's opinion of the Department for Transport's impact assessment for the Railways Bill, introduced in the House of Commons on 5 November 2025.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ RPC opinion: Railways Bill impact assessment
+1 more
↓ RPC opinion: Railways Bill impact assessment (9pp)
5 Nov 2025 | Policy paper Department for Transport linked direct

Accessible railways roadmap

Why linked: DfT's Accessible railways roadmap published the same day as Bill introduction — operationalises the disability-related duties in clauses 18 and 33-34.

Sets out actions government is taking to make railways more accessible, leading up to the establishment of Great British Railways (GBR).

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Our roadmap to an accessible railway
+5 more
↓ Our roadmap to an accessible railway (PDF version) (70pp) ↓ Our roadmap to an accessible railway (British Sign Language… ↓ Our roadmap to an accessible railway (Easy Read version) (25pp) ↓ Our roadmap to an accessible railway (large print version) (53pp) ↓ Map trywydd at Reilffyrdd Hygyrch (37pp)
5 Nov 2025 | Other Department for Transport linked direct

Rail reform and Great British Railways

Why linked: DfT 'Rail reform and Great British Railways' overview ties Bill to GBR design

The Railways Bill will help create Great British Railways (GBR) – a new, publicly owned company that prioritises passengers and their experiences.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
5 Nov 2025 | Policy paper Department for Transport linked direct

Railways Bill

Why linked: Cited by workspace synthesis

Provides more information about the Railways Bill, which was introduced in the House of Commons on 5 November 2025.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: summary
+14 more
↓ Railways Bill factsheet: introducing and designing Great Br… ↓ Railways Bill introduction: British Sign Language (BSL) ver… ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: holding Great British Railways to … ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: the Long-Term Rail Strategy ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: rail freight ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: the passenger watchdog ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: accessibility ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: fares ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: devolved and local government ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: tickets and retail ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: how the government plans to fund G… ↓ Railways Bill factsheet: making best use of the rail network ↓ Railways Bill: environment statement (1pp) ↓ Railways Bill: European Convention on Human Rights statement (1pp)
5 Nov 2025 | Written evidence Transport Committee linked direct

Railways Bill

Why linked: Briefing on the Government introducing the Railways Bill to deliver GBR (Nov 2025).

The Government has introduced the Railways Bill to Parliament to legislate for its commitment to unify network operations with infrastructure management under a single organisation – Great British Railways. The Bill is expected to go through ‘line by line’ scrutiny …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
5 Nov 2025 | Consultation outcome Department for Transport Context · primary home: Rail Regulation and Performan… linked evidence

A railway fit for Britain's future

Why linked: Filled the "Government rail strategy or rail reform policy documents that frame the Bill's objectives" gap via web research

Seeking views on proposals to reform Great Britain’s railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future
+4 more
↓ A railway fit for Britain's future (web accessible) (52pp) ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future (print version) (56pp) ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future (large print) (104pp) ↓ A railway fit for Britain's future (easy read version) (46pp)
1 Nov 2025 | Government response British Transport Police Delegated Powers and Regulatory Reform Committee Department for Transport Network Rail Office of Rail and Road Regulatory Policy Committee Transport Committee Transport Focus evidence

A Railway Fit for Britain's Future – Government Response CP 1442 (Full PDF, November 2025)

Why linked: Filled the "Franchise operating model transition documents" gap via web research

The full PDF of the government's consultation response on rail reform, detailing the transition away from the franchise operating model toward a publicly owned, GBR-led structure, and confirming the Railways Bill (now Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill) as the legislative …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
26 Sep 2025 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Next train services to return to public ownership revealed as government delivers railways reset

Why linked: Government announcement of the next four TOCs (West Midlands Trains, GTR, Chiltern, GWR) returning to public ownership in advance of GBR — direct delivery milestone.

West Midlands Trains, Govia Thameslink Railway, Chiltern Railways and Great Western Railways set to integrate into Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
13 Aug 2025 | Committee report linked direct

The Government’s franchising reforms offer a clear opportunity to embed stronger and fairer employment practices across the sector. Better pay, fair progression, and stable conditions are not only essential for retaining drivers but are also critical to maintaining reliable and high-quality bus services. Without addressing these workforce issues, the wider goals of reform risk being undermined. (Conclusion, Paragraph 81)

Why linked: Committee transcript fragment on the Government's franchising reforms and employment practices — directly relevant to Bill staff-transfer issues

The Government’s franchising reforms offer a clear opportunity to embed stronger and fairer employment practices across the sector. Better pay, fair progression, and stable conditions are not only essential for retaining drivers but are also critical to maintaining reliable and …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
13 Aug 2025 | Other Department for Transport linked direct

ORR train operator revenue protection review: Transport Secretary accepts recommendations

Why linked: ORR revenue protection review recommendations accepted by Transport Secretary - governance reform

Letter from the Secretary of State for Transport to train operating companies about the Office of Rail and Road’s review of revenue protection practices.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ ORR train operator revenue protection review: T…
23 Jul 2025 | Committee report Building Owners and Managers linked direct

Letter from the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Transport relating to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, dated 10 July 2025

Why linked: Letter from DfT re English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill (July 2025) - contextually adjacent to rail devolution/structure reform implications for Great British Railways framework

Direction: to_committee

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
17 Jul 2025 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Transfer of c2c’s Services into Public Ownership

Why linked: WMS announcing the c2c transfer of services into public ownership — direct delivery step in the GBR transition.

UIN: HCWS854 I can confirm to the House that this Sunday, 20 July, the government will take another step towards a unified railway overseen by Great British Railways (GBR), as c2c’s services become the second to transfer into public ownership …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
15 Jul 2025 | Policy paper Office of Rail and Road linked direct

ORR annual report and accounts 2024 to 2025

Why linked: ORR annual report and accounts 2024-25 - regulator performance and rail oversight

Office of Rail and Road annual report and resource accounts for the 2024 to 2025 period.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Annual report and accounts 2024 to 2025: HTML v…
+3 more
↓ Annual report and accounts 2024 to 2025: web version ↓ Annual report and accounts 2024 to 2025: print version ↓ Annual report and accounts 2024 to 2025: large print versi…
8 May 2025 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much funding has been (a) allocated to and (b) spent by the Great British Railways Transition Team since it was established; and how many external consultants were employed by that team on 28 April 2025.

Why linked: PQ on funding allocated to and spent by the Great British Railways Transition Team — direct fiscal scrutiny of GBR stand-up.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much funding has been (a) allocated to and (b) spent by the Great British Railways Transition Team since it was established; and how many external consultants were employed by that team …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
6 May 2025 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking with Great British Railways to ensure equality of access to the rail network for (a) nationalised and (b) open access operators.

Why linked: PQ on equality of access on the rail network under GBR — direct on the clause 18 duties.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking with Great British Railways to ensure equality of access to the rail network for (a) nationalised and (b) open access operators.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
6 May 2025 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of Great British Railways providing direct shuttle services for Universal Studios visitors between Luton Airport and Wixams station.

Why linked: PQ on Great British Railways providing services directly — direct on regime.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of Great British Railways providing direct shuttle services for Universal Studios visitors between Luton Airport and Wixams station.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
6 May 2025 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what capital funding will be made available to (a) Network Rail and (b) Great British Railways for Access for All schemes in each of the next five years.

Why linked: PQ on capital funding to Network Rail and GBR — direct fiscal scrutiny of the GBR funding architecture.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what capital funding will be made available to (a) Network Rail and (b) Great British Railways for Access for All schemes in each of the next five years.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
8 Apr 2025 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether appointments to Great British Railways will be included in the Public Bodies Order in Council; and whether the Chair will be classified as a Significant Appointment.

Why linked: PQ on GBR appointments and the Public Bodies Order in Council — direct on GBR governance.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether appointments to Great British Railways will be included in the Public Bodies Order in Council; and whether the Chair will be classified as a Significant Appointment.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
21 Mar 2025 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the new Great British Railways ticketing system will automatically identify the cheapest combination of fares for each journey.

Why linked: PQ on the new GBR ticketing system automatically identifying cheapest fares — direct on clauses 3 and 33-34.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the new Great British Railways ticketing system will automatically identify the cheapest combination of fares for each journey.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
20 Mar 2025 | Committee report linked direct

As part of a new Inclusive Transport Strategy, the Government must set out concrete timescales for achieving independent accessibility across the rail network, and commit to setting out within 12 months a road map for how to meet those timescales. This road map must inform the rolling stock, station and network enhancements strategies of the Department and, when it is operational, Great British Railways. (Recommendation, Paragraph 59)

Why linked: Committee finding on Inclusive Transport Strategy timescales for independent accessibility — relevant to the EIA and accessibility roadmap.

As part of a new Inclusive Transport Strategy, the Government must set out concrete timescales for achieving independent accessibility across the rail network, and commit to setting out within 12 months a road map for how to meet those timescales. …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
18 Mar 2025 | Written question Cabinet Office linked direct

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether he plans to lay a new Official Statistics Order to designate Great British Railways’ statistical outputs as official statistics.

Why linked: PQ on Official Statistics Order designation for GBR statistics — direct on GBR institutional architecture.

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether he plans to lay a new Official Statistics Order to designate Great British Railways’ statistical outputs as official statistics.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
13 Jan 2025 | Other Welsh Affairs Committee linked direct

Rail Infrastructure in Wales

Why linked: Evidence session on Rail Infrastructure in Wales - related to government's proposed rail reform including Great British Railways

The evidence session will explore the adequacy of rail infrastructure in Wales, the prospect of enhancements being made to Wales' rail network, and how the Government's proposed legislative agenda will change the way in which Wales' railways are managed. Non-inquiry …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
6 Jan 2025 | Other Department for Transport Office of Rail and Road linked direct

Secretary of State for Transport's expectations for how open access will operate alongside a publicly owned railway

Why linked: Secretary of State expectations for open access under publicly owned railway (GBR) - policy framework

The Secretary of State for Transport’s expectations for how the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) will consider new open access applications.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Letter to the Office of Rail and Road: decision… (2pp)

2024

31 events
13 Dec 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Shadow Great British Railways

Why linked: Transport Committee oral evidence with Laura Shoaf, Chair of Shadow Great British Railways (December 2024) — directly relevant to the GBR transition the Bill formalises

The Committee will hear from newly-appointed Chair of Shadow Great British Railways, Laura Shoaf. The session will cover Ms Shoaf's remit as Chair to drive improvements in the running of the railways prior to the creation of Great British Railways …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
11 Dec 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2024-12-11

Why linked: Transport Committee formal oral evidence session on 'Rail services and infrastructure' (December 2024) - pre-legislative or concurrent scrutiny of rail reform policy by named responsible body

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Rail services and infrastructure | Starts: 2024-12-11T09:15:00+00:00 | Ends: 2024-12-11T12:00:00+00:00 | Location: The Grimond Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
4 Dec 2024 | Other Department for Transport DfT Operator Limited evidence

Public ownership: railway passenger services

Why linked: Filled the "Franchise and operating model transition plans" gap via web research

South Western Railway and c2c will be the first to transfer into public ownership when their national rail contracts expire in 2025.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Nov 2024 | Announcement Department for Transport Context · primary home: Civil Aviation Bill linked direct

Integrated National Transport Strategy

Why linked: Integrated National Transport Strategy ministerial statement (Nov 2024) – government transport vision statement likely contextualising rail reform and Great British Railways

UIN: HLWS263 My Right Honourable friend, the Secretary of State for Transport (Louise Haigh), has made the following Ministerial Statement.The Government has today set out its vision for the first integrated national transport strategy in over two decades, delivering ...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
28 Nov 2024 | Statutory Instrument linked direct

The Franchising Schemes (Franchising Authorities) (England) Regulations 2024

Why linked: Statutory instrument on franchising authorities under Transport Act 2000 s.123A; directly relevant to passenger rail franchising reform scope

These Regulations bring into effect paragraphs (b) to (g) of section 123A(4) of the Transport Act 2000, such that the types of authorities listed in those paragraphs are included within the meaning of “franchising authority” for the purposes of Part …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
18 Nov 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Rail services and infrastructure

Why linked: Transport Committee inquiry on rail services and infrastructure including government's rail reform plans; contextual to bill development

In this session the Committee will examine the Department for Transport’s work on rail, including the Government's plans for rail reform, major infrastructure projects such as HS2 and the Transpennine Route Upgrade, and the performance of Network Rail and train …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
3 Sep 2024 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Transport Secretary fires the starting gun on rail reform as Public Ownership Bill reaches final stages in Commons

Why linked: Transport Secretary announcement on rail reform and Public Ownership Bill - substantive ministerial statement on Railways Bill precursor

Government to prioritise passengers over private companies and reverse decades of delays, cancellations and unreliable services on Britain’s railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Jul 2024 | Policy paper Office of Rail and Road linked direct

ORR annual report and accounts 2023 to 2024

Why linked: ORR annual report 2023-24; Office of Rail and Road is responsible body for the thread and this provides regulatory context and performance data

Office of Rail and Road annual report and resource accounts for the 2023 to 2024 period.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ ORR annual report and accounts 2023 to 2024: we…
+2 more
↓ ORR annual report and accounts 2023 to 2024: print version ↓ ORR annual report and accounts 2023 to 2024: print cover
22 May 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2024-05-22

Why linked: Transport Committee oral evidence session on Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill (May 2024).

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill | Starts: 2024-05-22T08:00:00+00:00 | Ends: 2024-05-22T11:15:00+00:00 | Location: The Thatcher Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
21 May 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2024-05-21

Why linked: Transport Committee oral evidence session on Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill (May 2024).

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill | Starts: 2024-05-21T13:30:00+00:00 | Ends: 2024-05-21T16:30:00+00:00 | Location: Room 8, Palace of Westminster | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
14 May 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) — Transport Committee — 2024-05-14

Why linked: Transport Committee oral evidence session on Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill (May 2024).

Event type: Formal meeting (oral evidence session) | Committee: Transport Committee | Inquiry: Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill | Starts: 2024-05-14T13:30:00+00:00 | Ends: 2024-05-14T16:30:00+00:00 | Location: The Grimond Room, Portcullis House | Status: completed

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Mar 2024 | Guidance CAA Context · primary home: Civil Aviation Bill linked direct

Statement of Policy on Penalties under Chapter 1 of Transport Act 2000

Why linked: ORR Statement of Policy on Penalties under Transport Act 2000 Chapter 1; updates enforcement framework relevant to rail regulatory reform

This document is a statement of policy on penalties to support our enforcement work under the Transport Act 2000 (“TA00”) in the light of the changes introduced to the TA00 by section 10 of the Air Traffic Management and Unmanned …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ CAP2983 (810.2kB …
1 Mar 2024 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, for what reason supporting documents for the draft Rail Reform Bill published on 20 February 2024 do not reference the expected £1.5 billion in recurring annual savings after an initial five year implementation

Why linked: PQ on supporting documents for the draft Rail Reform Bill.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, for what reason supporting documents for the draft Rail Reform Bill published on 20 February 2024 do not reference the expected £1.5 billion in recurring annual savings after an initial five year …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
1 Mar 2024 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Written Statement of 20 February 2024 on Government response to the consultation on rail reform legislation and draft Rail Reform Bill, HCWS267, what estimate he has made of the savings av

Why linked: PQ on the draft Rail Reform Bill and rail reform consultation response.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Written Statement of 20 February 2024 on Government response to the consultation on rail reform legislation and draft Rail Reform Bill, HCWS267, what estimate he has made of …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Feb 2024 | Other Transport Committee linked direct

Scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill

Why linked: Transport Committee pre-legislative scrutiny inquiry of the draft Rail Reform Bill.

The Transport Committee is conducting pre-legislative scrutiny of the draft Rail Reform Bill. The draft Bill proposes the legislative measures needed to deliver the Government’s programme of rail reform, principally the creation of a new ‘integrated rail body’ which will …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
20 Feb 2024 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Rail Update

Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Rail Reform Bill

UIN: HCWS267 I am pleased to lay the government’s response to the consultation on legislation required to deliver rail reform today. I am also publishing the draft Rail Reform Bill today, ahead of pre-legislative scrutiny which will be carried out …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
20 Feb 2024 | Policy paper Department for Transport linked direct

Draft Rail Reform Bill

Why linked: Conservative Government's predecessor draft Rail Reform Bill (Feb 2024).

The draft Rail Reform Bill contains the primary legislative measures, which form a key part of delivering rail reform in Great Britain.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Draft Rail Reform Bill (32pp)
+3 more
↓ Draft Rail Reform Bill: explanatory notes (29pp) ↓ Draft Rail Reform Bill: impact assessment (123pp) ↓ Draft Rail Reform Bill: delegated powers memorandum (26pp)
19 Feb 2024 | Consultation (closed) Office of Rail and Road Context · primary home: Rail Regulation and Performan… linked evidence

Response to DfT consultation on primary legislative changes required to effect rail reform

Why linked: Filled the "Consultation responses on rail franchising, regulation, or service standards" gap via web research

The Department for Transport (DfT) consulted between 9 June 2022 and 4 August 2022 seeking views on primary legislative changes required to effect rail reform as set out in the Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Great British Railways Transition Team (GBRTT) …
+2 more
↓ Response to the Department for Transport’s (DfT) consultati… ↓ Delivering a simpler, more efficient and more integrated ra…

2023

7 events
20 Dec 2023 | Consultation (closed) CAA Context · primary home: Civil Aviation Bill linked direct

Consultation on Statement of Policy on Penalties under Chapter 1 of Transport Act 2000

Why linked: Consultation on ORR penalties policy; provides regulatory context for enforcement framework under Transport Act 2000

This document consults on a draft statement of policy on penalties to support our enforcement work under the Transport Act 2000 (“TA00”) in the light of the changes introduced to the TA00 by section 10 of the Air Traffic Management …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ CAP2617 (429.9kB …
6 Nov 2023 | Consultation outcome Department for Transport linked direct

Minimum service levels for passenger rail during strike action

Why linked: Matched expansion phrase: Passenger Rail Services

A consultation on implementing minimum service levels for passenger rail services during periods of strike action.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ A consultation on implementing minimum service …
+8 more
↓ A consultation on implementing minimum service levels for p… (56pp) ↓ Ymgynghoriad ar weithredu isafswm lefelau gwasanaeth ar gyf… ↓ Consultation Annex B: key route strategy map (1pp) ↓ Consultation Annex E: service levels during recent rail str… ↓ Minimum service levels for passenger rail consultation impa… (39pp) ↓ Consultation response confidentiality and data protection ↓ Minimum service levels for passenger rail: government respo… ↓ Lefelau Gwasanaeth Gofynnol ar gyfer Rheilffyrdd Teithwyr: …

2022

3 events
25 Oct 2022 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department’s plans to produce a (a) Great British Railways White Paper and (b) new Transport Bill in this session of Parliament to implement the proposals in that White Paper.

Why linked: Written question directly asking about Great British Railways White Paper and new Transport Bill plans – foundational legislative intent document

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department’s plans to produce a (a) Great British Railways White Paper and (b) new Transport Bill in this session of Parliament to implement the proposals in that White Paper.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
16 May 2022 | Announcement Department for Transport linked direct

Nigel Stevens appointed new Transport Focus Chair

Why linked: Transport Focus chair appointment explicitly references working with Great British Railways; shows governance transition planning

New Chair to champion passengers while overseeing change to ensure Transport Focus works effectively with Great British Railways.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2021

3 events
13 Oct 2021 | Policy paper Department for Transport Network Rail Office of Rail and Road Regulatory Policy Committee Transport Committee Transport Focus evidence

Passenger service contracts: market engagement preview

Why linked: Filled the "Franchise and concession reform documentation" gap via web research

A DfT publication (October 2021) summarising the future passenger service contracts (PSCs) offer — the concession model intended to replace franchising — and what it means for the UK rail industry under the Williams-Shapps reform agenda.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
7 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked direct

After our evidence session, on 20 May, the Department published its long-delayed Rail white paper, which outlines its “once-in-a-generation” reforms planned for the rail system, including replacing franchising and better integrating infrastructure with passenger services.25 The Department acknowledges that it must overcome a “complex and…deep-rooted set of issues” to improve the system, and that such a large reform programme will be fraught with risks.26 Despite this, the Department told us i...

Why linked: Department for Transport Rail White Paper (May 2021) outlining the foundational 'once-in-a-generation' rail reform policy that underpins the Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill and Great British Railways establishment.

After our evidence session, on 20 May, the Department published its long-delayed Rail white paper, which outlines its “once-in-a-generation” reforms planned for the rail system, including replacing franchising and better integrating infrastructure with passenger services.25 The Department acknowledg

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
30 Jun 2021 | Written question Department for Transport linked direct

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the legislation required to implement the Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail will repeal the (1) Railways Act 1993, (2) Railways Act 2005, and (3) Railways (Access, Management and Licensing of Railway Undertakings) Regul

Why linked: PQ on whether legislation will repeal the Railways Act 1993 — direct predecessor question for this thread.

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the legislation required to implement the Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail will repeal the (1) Railways Act 1993, (2) Railways Act 2005, and (3) Railways (Access, Management and Licensing of Railway Undertakings) Regul

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2020

1 event

2019

1 event
20 May 2019 | Research House of Commons Library linked direct

Rail passenger rights, compensation & complaints

Why linked: Commons Briefing Paper on rail passenger rights, compensation and complaints; provides policy background on compensation schemes the bill will reform

Type: Commons Briefing Paper (CBP-8572) Both the standard and enhanced Delay Repay compensation schemes have regularly been touted as being more generous to passengers. This is true for many, but there is evidence in this paper to suggest that the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ CBP-8572.pdf

2018

1 event
18 Jan 2018 | Debate Department for Transport linked direct

Rail Passenger Compensation

Why linked: Parliamentary debate on rail passenger compensation (2018); historical context on passenger compensation debates preceding the bill

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2016

1 event

2010

2 events
30 Mar 2010 | Research House of Commons Library linked direct

Railways: Strategic Rail Authority, 1998-2005

Why linked: Strategic Rail Authority research paper (1998-2005) provides essential background on historical rail governance structures that are being reformed by the new bill

Type: Standard Note (SN01344) This Note describes the setting up of the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA), the background to it, its functions and powers as set out in the Transport Act 2000 and its abolition in 2005.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ SN01344.pdf
18 Mar 2010 | Research House of Commons Library linked direct

Railways: privatisation, 1987-1996

Why linked: Railways privatisation research paper (1987-1996) provides foundational context on the Railways Act 1993 framework that this bill will amend or reform

Type: Standard Note (SN01157) This note describes the structure of the rail industry following privatisation by the Railways Act 1993. It is intended to give a factual account and only briefly touches on the issues involved in reaching decisions about …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ SN01157.pdf

2004

1 event
1 Dec 2004 | Research House of Commons Library linked direct

Railways Bill (Bill 6 of 2004/05)

Why linked: Railways Bill (2004/05) research paper provides comparative legislative analysis for understanding rail franchise and regulatory reform mechanisms

Type: Research Paper (RP04-86) The Railways Bill (Bill 6 of 2004/05). House of Commons Library Research Paper 04/86.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ RP04-86.pdf

1999

2 events
14 Jul 1999 | Research House of Commons Library linked direct

Railways Bill (Bill 133 1998/99)

Why linked: Library Research Paper 99/72 on Railways Bill 1998-99 — predecessor framework analysis useful as historical comparator on rail-bill structure

Type: Research Briefing (RP99-72) Railways Bill. (Bill 133 of 1998/99). House of Commons Library Research Paper 99/72.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ RP99-72.pdf