Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the effect of rail routes being closed as a result of covid-19 restrictions between 23 - 27 December 2020 on people's ability to visit family in that period.

The Department is working with transport operators to help people see their loved ones safely. We are asking everyone to consider their journey carefully, plan and book ahead, and be patient and considerate of fellow passengers – particularly staff who have worked so hard all year – by following the guidance, including keeping space and wearing a face covering on public transport.

We are postponing rail upgrade works to ease congestion, minimise disruption and allow extra services to run. We are also removing the admin fees for changing advance rail tickets and ensuring a strong staff presence to help people on their way.

The Chair of Network Rail, Sir Peter Hendy, is carrying out a rigorous assessment of transport network preparedness to ensure everything possible is being done to help.