Labour Unveils Plan to Renationalise UK Railways if Elected

The proposal aims to transfer rail networks to public ownership within the first term, promising significant reforms and cost savings.

Labour's rail reform includes transferring private rail contracts to a new publicly owned body, establishing a Passenger Standards Authority, and integrating rail services with bus and cycle hire.
Shadow Transport Secretary Louise Haigh announced the plan at Trainline headquarters, emphasizing improvements in passenger experience and operational efficiencies.
The plan promises no taxpayer-funded compensation costs and estimates annual savings of £2.2 billion by eliminating inefficiencies.
Conservatives criticize the plan as unfunded, arguing it would lead to increased taxes without improving service reliability or affordability.
Unions and some industry experts support the proposal, highlighting potential benefits for passengers, workers, and the economy.