Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, which railway franchise holders are contractually obliged to put forward proposals to provide a Boxing Day train service; and when such proposals should be made.

Of the published franchise agreements, two franchises are currently required to provide proposals for Boxing Day services.

Within 12 months of the start of their franchises, First Transpennine Express and Arriva Rail North are contractually obliged to prepare and submit a report to the Secretary of State which sets out proposals for operating Boxing Day services.

Both Arriva Rail North and First Transpennine Express have submitted the required reports to Rail North, who work in conjunction with the Secretary of State within the terms of the Rail North Partnership Agreement, to assess such proposals for Boxing Day services.