A Bill to require the Secretary of State to assume control of passenger rail franchises when they come up for renewal; and for connected purposes.
House of Commons
28 April 2017
May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.
This Railways Bill would require the government to take over control of passenger rail franchises when they come up for renewal, giving the government direct oversight over how those services are run. It also refers to related powers under “connected purposes.” In short, it pushes towards public control of passenger rail contracts at renewal rather than private operation.
The bill is at the second reading stage in the Commons. It originated in the Commons and has been debated over several years, with the first reading back in 2016.
At the second-reading vote, the bill passed 329 for and 173 against. A separate Opposition Reasoned Amendment was defeated 332 against to 170 in favour. Party lines show mixed positions within many groups.
Generated 21 February 2026
4 Jul 2016
Based on 2 recorded votes • Sorted by % Aye
This Bill was expected to have its second reading debate on Friday 20 January 2017 but an objection was taken under Standing Order No.11(2) and the Bill's second reading had been scheduled for Friday 12 May 2017.
However, as a General Election has now been called and Parliament will be dissolved from 3 May 2017, the Bill falls and no further action will be taken.
