Recommendation 2

At present, the lack of detail from the Department about what a minimum service level specification might look like is preventing stakeholders from being able to assess how it will affect them or those they represent. Once the Department has determined which model of minimum service level it plans to implement through regulations, it must consult on it. The Department should set out an implementation plan and consult with a wide group of stakeholders including unions, passengers and operators. The Department should also consider ways in which a set minimum service level for rail could be piloted.