The Bill which will create Great British Railways is being debated in the House of Commons, as the Railways Bill receives its Second Reading. The Government has announced that the GBR identity will start to appear on trains and stations in the spring.

Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: ‘The future of Britain’s railways begins today. I’m immensely proud to unveil the new look for Great British Railways as we deliver landmark legislation to nationalise our trains and reform the railway so it better serves passengers.

‘This isn’t just a paint job – it represents a new railway, casting off the frustrations of the past and focused entirely on delivering a proper public service for passengers.

‘With fares frozen, a bold new look and fundamental reforms becoming law, we are building a railway Britain can rely on and be proud of.’


East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward said: ‘This is a huge boost for passengers not only in the East Midlands but across the country. For too long, our trains have been overcrowded, unreliable, and confusing to navigate. Great British Railways will make journeys simpler, faster, and fairer for everyone.  

‘Passengers here will be able to plan and pay for trips more easily with the app, while investment in new trains and improved services, backed by the decision to base Great British Railways’ headquarters in Derby, will mean more seats, more comfort, and more reliable connections between our towns and cities.

‘This is about giving people a railway that actually works for them, one that helps people get to work, study, or visit friends and family with confidence and ease.’


Rail Delivery Group executive chair and CEO Jacqueline Starr said: ‘The Railways Bill presents an opportunity to bring the industry together with a single focus on delivering for our customers and we are determined to play our part in getting it right. As the industry evolves, our priority remains supporting the rail network to keep people moving and making sure we are delivering a better railway for everyone across the country, now and in the future.’

The chief executive of the Campaign for Better Transport Ben Plowden said: ‘The Railways Bill represents a significant opportunity to create a more accountable, affordable, accessible and better-integrated rail network. To do this however, it must include clearer duties, stronger safeguards and a firmer long-term funding framework. As part of this, we’d like to see a target to increase passenger numbers, a plan to grow the network to connect more people to the railways, and a clear timetable for fares and ticketing reforms to make trains more affordable for more people.’