Rail reform latest: watchdog comment

09 June 2022

How can passengers best be represented in the future?

Today the Department for Transport published its consultation on the legislative changes needed for its widescale rail reform, as set out in the Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail. This includes changes to how the watchdog represents passengers.

Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“Today is another step along the road to rail reform. Passengers tell us that they want a reliable, value for money rail service. It is good to see more of the proposed detail, and for people to have the chance to respond. We welcome the new passenger champion role for rail that the paper outlines for Transport Focus. We look forward to working with the DfT, ORR, Great British Railways and others to develop our work to ensure the passenger is placed at the centre of future plans.”