Railways
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of the existing regulatory framework for open access rail operators.
Answered by Simon Lightwood
The Government believes the existing regulatory framework that governs access to the railway is not fit for purpose. It has failed not only passengers but also freight operators as it is designed for each part of the railway to act in isolation, resulting in fragmented decision making and conflicting accountabilities. Our consultation set out proposals for fundamental reform of the framework, with Great British Railways as a single directing mind, able to strategically plan the best use of the network, implementing an achievable, reliable timetable, so that the services promised to passengers are delivered. Better coordination of the timetable will reduce delays, improve reliability, reduce costs and boost growth.
The Government will respond to the consultation in due course.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →