Labour Pledges to Renationalise Railways

The Labour Party says it will transfer all rail networks into public ownership within its first term of government by folding existing private franchises into a new body as they expire. Shadow transport secretary Louise Haigh said the gradual renationalisation of the railways meant the taxpayer would not have to pay more to compensate private companies running the franchises. She said, “With Labour’s bold reforms, a publicly-owned railway will be single-mindedly focused on delivering for passengers and will be held to account on delivering reliable, safe, efficient, accessible, affordable, and quality services.” “Labour’s detailed plans will get our railways back on track, driving up standards for passengers, bringing down costs for taxpayers, driving growth and getting Britain moving,” added Ms. Haigh....