Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Accepted in Part
Mandate Secretary of State to publish statutory guidance for GBR on weighing competing duties.
Recommendation
As GBR is accountable to the Secretary of State for fulfilment of its duties, we recommend the Secretary of State issues and publishes statutory guidance on how GBR, at least, should weigh up competing elements of the duties. This will allow for consistency and transparency in decision-making. The guidance must make it clear that cost must be considered proportionately and not outweigh all other considerations. (Recommendation, Paragraph 39)
Government Response Summary
The government partially agrees, stating they intend to confirm the application of the general and specific Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) to GBR through powers under section 153 of the Equality Act 2010 once GBR is designated. They disagree with amending the Bill as they have stated their intention.
Government Response
Accepted in Part
HM Government
Accepted in Part
The Government partially agrees with this recommendation. As the Committee notes, currently franchised Train Operating Companies are not bound by the either the general or specific Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). To underline this Government’s commitment to accessibility and non-discrimination, we have not only committed to the general PSED applying to GBR but also the specific PSED too. We intend to confirm application through the use of the powers provided to the Secretary of State under section 153 of the Equality Act 2010 once GBR has been designated as the integrated rail body, with its corporate structure in place. Therefore, we disagree with the recommended amendment to the Bill as the Government has clearly stated its intention and would be happy to reiterate this on the floor of the House. If the Committee requires further reassurance regarding the Government’s plans for the specific duty, we will happily continue engagement with them until the SI is laid.