Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential merits of a moratorium on non-essential engineering works over the Christmas 2020 period to reduce travel disruption.

Carrying out engineering works is essential to ensure that the railway remains safe for passengers and staff, and that changes can be made to improve passenger journeys. Network Rail and train operators take all possible measures to minimise the impact this essential work has on passengers. This includes diverting trains from their usual routes, and planning engineering works in a way that preserves connectivity, and providing alternative transport by road where needed.

This winter, engineering works will involve upgrades and routine maintenance around Britain. Most of the railway will stay open for business as usual, but passengers should check their journeys in advance if they are planning to travel during this time. Operators will also provide passengers with advance notice, so they know how their journeys will be affected and what alternatives are available.