The UK government announces the launch of Shadow Great British Railways as the Public Ownership Bill progresses through parliament.

In the Labour manifesto, one of the party’s standout commitments was the creation of Great British Railways (GBR) – an effective renationalisation of the UK’s rail system that will happen gradually as existing private contracts elapse.

In its manifesto, Labour said GBR will deliver a “unified system that focuses on reliable, affordable, high-quality, and efficient services; along with ensuring safety and accessibility”.

Transport secretary Louise Haigh has a major role in overseeing the government’s plan to bring the UK’s railways back into public ownership.

When Labour came into power in July 2024 she pledged that the government will “deliver value for the taxpayer while turbocharging delivery of transport projects”.

Yesterday she announced that this overhaul is now underway in the form of the Shadow GBR.

“I am firing the starting gun on the biggest reforms...