Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to conduct a review of the relationship between Network Rail and rail franchising companies with an action plan to improve (1) services, and (2) provision of information to passengers.

The Government 2017 paper, Connecting People: A Strategic Vision for Rail, already sets out the specific actions that the government is taking to improve services to passengers, including closer working relationships between Network Rail and train operating companies, continuing high levels of investment and an improved experience for passengers.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is currently conducting two reviews into rail timetabling issues. As part of these reviews they are considering the roles played by the various participant parties in the rail sector, including Network Rail and franchise operators, in the provision of services and information about services to passengers. ORR will publish its conclusions and any recommendations in due course. Further information about the reviews is available on the ORR’s website: orr.gov.uk