Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions he has had with rail operators with reservation-only services to ensure that they have alternative procedures in place in the event that social distancing and other measures cannot be adhered to.
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. This policy remains under regular review, with the level to which passengers are able to practice social distancing on board regularly discussed with operators. 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.