The Railway Industry Association has welcomed the Transport Bill announced in the Queen's Speech, which includes plans to ‘improve’ the railway industry.

Prince Charles said: ‘Her Majesty's Government will improve transport across the United Kingdom, delivering safer, cleaner services and enabling more innovation. Legislation will be introduced to modernise rail services and improve reliability for passengers.’

RIA’s chief executive Darren Caplan said: ‘The railway industry will welcome the inclusion of a new Transport Bill in the Queen’s Speech today. However, it would have been good to see Great British Railways specifically mentioned in the Speech, to ensure we can make progress.’

Rail Delivery Group director general Andy Bagnall said: ‘To make these reforms a success, this needs to be balanced with giving private operators the contractual freedom to focus relentlessly on customers, and boldly innovate to meet their needs. The private sector will continue to work with government and the Great British Railways Transition Team to ensure these reforms meet the ambition and potential of the Williams Shapps Plan for Rail.’