Enough is now enough of chaos on trains

With passengers bracing themselves for further weeks of delays, and cancelled services, as a result of these cack-handed changes that have resulted in a temporary timetable being drafted in, the credibility of the Northern Powerhouse has taken another massive blow.

The Powerhouse focus was meant to improve public transport between the North’s major cities in order to transform the future economic prospects of this region.

We therefore say to Prime Minister Theresa May that if she does not intervene now, she serves a clear message that this government does not truly serve the North. We ask the Prime Minister to: Summon transport chiefs, and business leaders, to 10 Downing Street this week for an emergency summit to devise an action plan to get this region moving again;

Announce a special compensation scheme for those passengers most affected by the delays and disruption;

Give Transport for the North the necessary policy and financial powers so it can have full oversight of all local, suburban and regional services and work in tandem with Network Rail; it is clear our railways cannot be cared for properly from London;

Commit the Government to a full and fundamental review of rail franchising – the Northern fiasco is yet another example of a franchisee overpromising and under-delivering;

demonstrate a commitment to fair transport funding for the North, with a pledge that the planned high-speed line across the Pennines - NPR - is an