NORTHERN AND TRANSPENNINE EXPRESS RAIL SERVICES

That this House is concerned at the contents of the consultation document for the Northern Rail and TransPennine Express rail franchises; is dismayed that the proposals will result in fare rises, service and timetable cuts and the loss of hundreds of essential rail jobs; is further concerned that not only will there be the loss of hundreds of decent, relatively well-paid, skilled jobs in the north but also that passenger service and safety will be worsened by the introduction of driver-only operation, the sacking of train guards, conductors, station destaffing and ticket office closures; is also concerned that these type of cuts will particularly impact on disabled, older and women passengers; supports the numerous passenger surveys and research which demonstrate that passengers value highly proper staffing of trains and stations; and calls on the Government and local authorities, including those that constitute Rail North, to stop these cuts and protect the interests of passengers and the communities who rely on these rail services.