Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what performance standards her Department requires publicly owned train operating companies to meet when providing rail replacement transport during prolonged disruption; and how compliance with those standards is monitored.

Train operators are required under their National Rail Contracts and service agreements to provide sufficient alternative transport during rail disruption to meet foreseeable demand. The National Rail Conditions of Travel also provide that, where disruption prevents a passenger completing their journey, operators will, where reasonably practicable, provide alternative means of travel to their destination.

Compliance with contractual requirements is monitored through the Department's contract management and performance review arrangements. Operators are also required to provide accurate, timely and consistent passenger information, including during disruption; compliance with which is monitored by the Office of Rail and Road.