Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of how the leasing market for rolling stock may develop in future; and what assessment have they made of the experiences of rolling stock procurement (1) by Transport for London, (2) by the private sector, or (3) abroad.

The Government will expect Great British Railways when it is operating to deliver the best outcomes for the taxpayer. This will include formulating a long term plan for railway rolling stock, giving greater certainty over long term life, monitoring the leasing market and financing options on a continuing basis, as well as learning lessons from international comparators where relevant. It is expected that this will enable a better market and a reduction in costs to the public purse.