Passengers across the country will have better train services thanks to a new transport bill set out in the King’s Speech.
The Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Bill has been introduced to Parliament today (18 July 2024).
After years of unacceptably low performance, the bill is a landmark change that will allow the government to bring rail passenger services back into public ownership, amending legislation to make appointing a public sector operator the default, rather than a last resort.
Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, said:
This is a clear signal of intent. Rail reform is at the heart of this King’s Speech.
As Passenger-in-Chief, I said we’d move fast and fix things and that’s exactly what we’re doing with this weighty, radical legislative agenda.
Our transport system is broken, but today’s bill will pave the way for better trains that work for everyone, no matter where you live.
After years of inefficiency, we’re 2 weeks in and the first steps towards rail reform are being taken today. Change starts now.
Our railways are essential in ensuring connectivity for all kinds of people across the country and unlocking their full potential is essential to growing the economy and lowering emissions from transport.
The new laws will ensure rail services are run with the passengers put first.
With 5 bills, transport has the biggest legislative agenda, with plans to deliver the biggest overhaul to transport in a generation.
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