South Western Railway will be the first rail operator to return to public ownership next year, marking a pivotal moment in the long-awaited overhaul of Britain’s railways, the government has confirmed.
Ministers have hailed the decision as the start of a “major shake-up”, aiming to deliver a more reliable and cost-effective rail network. In a move that has long been promised by the Labour Party, the Government insists the transition will not only enhance service standards but also contribute to its economic growth agenda by encouraging more people to use public transport.
