On Wednesday 12 December, Bridget Phillipson MP led a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry on whether rail services provide value for money.

The PAC is the cross-party body that scrutinises government spending, and its inquiry is focusing on rail franchising, Crossrail and the Government’s handling of other rail projects in the UK.

Following the evidence session, Ms Phillipson commented:

“I raised concerns about the experiences of disabled passengers who are often let down when travelling by rail, and what can be done to ensure they get the service they deserve.

I also highlighted the commitments made to improve rail connectivity when Virgin Trains East Coast was awarded the franchise in 2014, particularly around an improved service to our region including Sunderland and Middlesbrough.

Now the franchise has changed hands, ministers must not backtrack on the promises that were made, but do more to deliver high-quality rail services for passengers across the north east.”

You can find out more about this inquiry here.