Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, for which future franchises his Department plans to specify driver-only operation.

Staffing levels are generally a matter for railway operators, as we believe that they are best placed to determine how to meet the needs of their passengers. However, the Department may consider on a case-by-case basis whether, exceptionally, to invite proposals involving driver-only or driver-controlled operation when it holds competitions for future franchises.