30% Of Train Operating Companies Show Worsening Delay Figures

A survey of Train Operating Companies by the Liberal Democrats reveals a summer of chaos with 1 in 5 trains delayed and nearly one third of the privatised rail companies suffering more delays than in 2001.

Comparing the punctuality performance of 20 Train Operating Companies (TOCs) in July/August 2003 with the same 4-week period in 2001 and 1997 shows that none of the TOCs have reached the standards they achieved in April 1997.

Commenting on the figures, Bath's MP, Don Foster who is Lib Dem Shadow Transport Secretary, said:

"This is extremely bad news for long-suffering passengers. In April, only 2 train companies were suffering increasing delays. Now 6 companies are getting worse.

"Even among those companies who are improving, it will be 2008 before the rail network gets back to the punctuality standards of 1997, when Labour took over. The Government is struggling to reach even the unambitious standard set by the Tories.

"With autumn upon us - traditionally the worst season for British rail passengers - worse is yet to come. Alistair Darling has his work cut out for him if British travellers are going to get the safe, affordable and reliable railway they deserve any day soon.

"Commendation must go to First Great Western however, who have improved their performance by over 15% - more than any other company."

ENDS

Notes to Editors to follow...

The Liberal Democrats would further reduce the number of Train Operating Companies and encourage further vertical integration of the network, so that Train Operating Companies wishing to manage their section of track can do so. The Liberal Democrats are also committed to investing in local rail schemes, and would restore cut funding to schemes such as the Rail Passenger Partnerships.

This article published: 08/09/2023

Published by Bath Liberal Democrats, 31 James St West, Bath, BA1 2BT. Printed and hosted by JPC Infonet, 2 St Georges Works, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8AA. Your Privacy.