Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions he has had with train operators with reservation-only bookings on (a) ensuring social distancing measures are (i) applied and (ii) adhered to on their services and (b) other steps required to comply with covid-19 regulations.

The Department and operators are encouraging passengers to make a reservation on board long distance services to help passengers maintain social distancing during their journey. Some seats on each service are kept available for passengers who are unable to book a seat before travelling, preserving the flexibility of the walk-up railway for those who need it. Passengers are urged to check before they travel and to plan ahead, as services are likely to be busier as restrictions ease. They are reminded to follow safer travel guidance when they travel, including wearing a face covering unless exempt, sanitising their hands regularly and keeping their distance where possible.