Commenting on Transport Secretary Mark Harper's announcement that Transpennine Express’ contract will not be renewed at the end of this month, Andy Bagnall, Chief Executive of Rail Partners, said:

‘The decision not to extend TPE’s contract is very disappointing. Passengers need reliable services, but the operator’s issues were complex and largely beyond their control, especially in the context of industrial relations.

‘It is essential that the Secretary of State delivers on his promise to return this contract to the private sector, which needs to be done at pace to secure the benefits that competitive tendering and private sector innovation deliver for customers and taxpayers.’

Notes to editors

Read First Group's full statement here: https://otp.tools.investis.com/clients/uk/first_group/rns/regulatory-story.aspx?cid=858&newsid=1686854

Read the Department for Transport's news release here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/transpennine-express-to-be-brought-into-operator-of-last-resort

About Rail Partners

Rail Partners exists to make the railway better by harnessing the expertise and creativity of private sector operators for the benefit of those who use the railway, passengers and freight customers, and those who pay for it, including taxpayers.

Rail Partners provides advocacy and policy solutions for its private sector passenger owning Group and freight company members. Rail Partners additionally provides technical services to train operating companies in both the public and private sectors.

For more information regarding our membership visit https://www.railpartners.co.uk

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