Welcome signals from Keith Williams on the direction of his rail review

26 February 2019

Commenting on the Keith William’s George Bradshaw Address announcement, Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“At the half way point of his root and branch review Keith Williams is right to acknowledge that the rail industry has lost sight of its passengers and must put their needs and experience at the heart of what it delivers.

“The focus on improving the passenger experience, improved access to compensation and driving better value for money outcomes from the substantial passenger and taxpayer investment is a step in the right direction.

“Having consulted Transport Focus promptly, he also knows that our research shows that passengers want to know someone is in overall charge of the railway and answers for the quality of services.

“Passengers will judge the success of the Rail Review on how far it meets their priorities for improvement: more punctual and reliable services, more chance of getting a seat or standing in comfort and better value for money.”