Latest editorial
TAXPAYERS have been “short-changed” by up to £2 billion through the government decision to let Richard Branson’s failing East Coast rail franchise off the hook early, Labour warned yesterday.
Last November, Chris Grayling announced that Virgin Trains East Coast’s contract would be terminated three years ahead of schedule, sparing the privateer the embarrassment of being forced to hand the keys back to the government.
The Transport Secretary said a new East Coast Partnership would take on responsibility for trains and track operations on the route in 2020.
The HS2 debacle exposes what happens when public infrastructure is handed to private contractors – especially when set against China’s state-led high-speed rail success, says CARLOS MARTINEZ
A just transition to Great British Railways and a clean and safe railway for all is not only desirable but also necessary. MARYAM ESLAMDOUST explains
On the eve of the 157th Trades Union Congress, MICK WHELAN, general secretary of Aslef, the train drivers’ union, celebrates victory in his campaign to get dignity for drivers at work