Louise Haigh MP, Labour’s Shadow Transport Secretary, commenting on news the government has handed train operator Avanti West Coast a further contract extension, said:

“Avanti has literally broken records over the last six months for delays and cancellations, and the Conservatives’ answer is to reward failure with millions more in taxpayer cash.

“If this is what success looks like to ministers, it shows that under the Conservatives our broken railways are here to stay.

“The next Labour government will put passengers back at the heart of our railways, and build the infrastructure fit for the century ahead unlocking jobs and growth.”