The UK needs a modern, safe, affordable, and efficient railway system. The railway enables millions to travel for work, leisure, or tourism, and shifts millions of tons of freight. It is a deep part of our shared culture and an essential part of our economy. For 200 years, it has driven economic growth, forged new towns, opened new markets, and helped Britain to boom.

I share the Government’s ambition for a modern railway, linking our communities, and run in the interests of the public, not for profit. That must include accessible, safe stations and carriages, a ticketing system that makes sense, with prices that people feel are fair, and decent working conditions for staff.

The Railways Bill, currently going through Parliament, seeks to deliver all of this, representing the biggest shake-up of our railways in a generation. It will create Great British Railways (GBR), bringing together track and train operations together. The Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024 allows Department for Transport-contracted operators to be brought into public ownership as their contracts come to an end.

I know people want to see improved ticketing. There are many different train operator websites and ticket types, which can confuse passengers and cost more. That’s why I am pleased the Bill combines all train operator websites and apps into one GBR system. In the future, GBR will sell tickets directly to customers, both online and in person, at ticket offices, via machines, and on trains.

It is positive this has been combined with Ministers announcing the first freeze in rail fares for 30 years. This will ease the pressure on household finances and make travelling to work, school or to visit friends and family that bit easier, which I warmly welcome.

It is right accessibility is a priority for the Government, and I share its commitment to delivering a rail system which allows everyone, including disabled people, to travel easily, confidently and with dignity.

More widely, I agree investment in the rail network is essential and well overdue. By bringing train operations into public hands, Ministers can save £150 million a year in management fees, which can be reinvested in our services.

I am following the progression of the Railways Bill through Parliament closely and look forward to seeing it deliver significant benefits for passengers