22.01.20
DfT statement on South Western Railway
The Department for Transport (DfT) has today (Jan 22) announced an update on South Western Railway, outlining precautionary measures to ensure the continuation of services.
Transport secretary, Grant Shapps, has released a written statement to parliament highlighting that under the Railways Act 1993, there is a legal requirement to ensure that crucial services continue for passengers under any circumstance.
Recent statements of South Western Railway’s (SWR’s) finances have put the future of the franchise into question, as indications shows it is ‘not sustainable’ in the long term.
DfT has committed to holding SWR to their financial obligations under the current franchise, despite not yet failing to meet their financial commitments.
As a precautionary measure, they have presented options including a new short-term contract with SRW, with clear performance requirements or transferring the operation to the Operator of Last Resort (OLR), a public sector operator owned by DfT.
Grant Shapps said:
“This will not impact on the railway’s day-to-day operations. The business will continue to operate as usual with no material impact on SWR services or staff.
“Parliament will be kept informed of developments.
“Across the country a number of franchises are failing to provide the reliable services that passengers require and there are legitimate questions on whether the current franchising model is viable.
“Keith Williams — who is leading an independent review into the railways — has already stated that franchising cannot continue in its current form. His review will propose sector-wide reforms which aim to put passengers at the heart of the railway.
“Whoever operates SWR services, I will remain committed to modernising services and improving support for passengers.
“The railway is a public service. People rely upon it to support their way of life, livelihoods, education and healthcare, and it is why this government has committed to introducing minimum service levels during times of strike action.”