In his first appearance at the UK Parliament Transport Committee
as Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, set out his three asks of the UK Government as well as
his ambition for a fully integrated, efficient system which meets
the needs of Welsh passengers.
He called for:
- Full autonomy for the Wales and Borders franchise.
- A partnership role in designing and managing services run by
other operators which impact Welsh passengers.
- Ensure the new integrated rail body (Great British Rail) is
accountable to the Welsh Government and the Senedd for its work
in Wales.
Speaking at the committee earlier today [Tuesday 21 May] the
Cabinet Secretary responsible for transport said:
“This bill could and should provide a significant step towards a
clearer role for the Welsh Government. We want to work in
partnership on rail reform to deliver a simplifier more efficient
system for the benefit of passengers in Wales and the borders.”
Addressing the need for more powers in Wales, he said:
“The current rail industry model for Wales is the most complex of
all UK nations. It needs reform and our starting point remains
our longstanding call for the full devolution of rail
infrastructure and services - along with a fair funding
settlement.
We see further devolution of rail as a process not an event and
believe there is significant room for improvement within the
current devolution settlement and through a staged approach to
further devolution of rail powers.”
