Statement on the West Coast rail franchise

Shadow Secretary of State for Transport, Maria Eagle, responded on behalf of the Opposition.

• Watch Parliament TV: Statement on West Coast rail franchise 
• Read Commons Hansard: Statement on West Coast rail franchise
• Read current Parliamentary material in Topics: Railways

The Transport Secretary updated the House on the Laidlaw inquiry, the independent inquiry into the cancelled West Coast Main Line franchise competition, and the action the Government would take in response.

• Read GOV.UK News: West Coast Main Line: Final report of the Laidlaw inquiry (external site)

He also announced that Virgin Trains is to continue operating rail services on the West Coast Main Line for up to 23 months.

House of Commons Library Research Briefing

The House of Commons Library provides research, analysis and information services for MPs and their staff.
 
The Library has produced a standard note that gives basic information about the various franchises in England, Scotland and Wales.

It briefly explains how rail passenger franchising works and the franchising policies of successive governments.

• Read the Commons Library Standard Note: Railways: passenger franchises

Oral statements

Oral statements are made after Question Time (or at 11am on a Friday) and after any Urgent Questions.

Statements normally relate to matters of policy or government actions. At the end of a statement, MPs can respond or question the government minister on its contents.

• About Parliament: Ministerial statements