100 MPs call for a debate on rail policy

MORE than 100 MPs have signed a Commons motion criticising government proposals for the future of railways, warning of worsening services, higher fares and job cuts.

An early day motion (EDM) tabled by Labour MP John McDonnell is attracting cross-party support in the UK, amid fresh anger at the amount of investment being made in the railways, while fares “go through the roof”.

The EDM warns that the government’s plans “will worsen passenger services through the loss of thousands of frontline workers”, and “will result in higher fares, cuts in services and more crowded trains”.

The MPs have urged the government to run the railway as a “public service” with “affordable fares and proper staffing levels”.