Luxembourg Rail Protocol : “Rail Reform Bill: RPC Opinion – Green-Rated”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Rail Reform Bill RPC Opinion
2. Green-rated Rail Reform Bill RPC Opinion

The Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC) has released their opinion on the impact assessment for the draft Rail Reform Bill currently undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny. The RPC’s opinion covers the overarching impact assessment published on 20 February 2024, addressing elements of the proposed new integrated rail body (IRB) such as accessibility, data, and the environment. The RPC has also issued opinions on two specific proposals related to regulatory provisions within the draft Bill. While most measures mentioned are not regulatory provisions and therefore not monetized, the RPC will continue to scrutinize the IA post-PLS. Opinions on the Luxembourg Rail Protocol and power to amend rail markets legislation are also provided.

Regulatory Policy Committee opinion on the draft Rail Reform Bill

In a recent development, the Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC) has provided its opinion on the impact assessment for the draft Rail Reform Bill, currently undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny. This opinion, published to assist with the scrutiny process, covers the overarching impact assessment for the Bill, which was initially published on 20 February 2024.

Background on the draft Rail Reform Bill

The proposal under consideration involves the establishment of a new integrated rail body (IRB) to co-ordinate the railways. The impact assessment addresses various elements of the IRB, including accessibility, data, and environmental concerns. While the IA includes assessment of two proposals, for which the RPC has already issued opinions, it is important to note that five other proposals in the draft Bill are not considered regulatory provisions.

Assessment of Regulatory Provisions

As most measures in the IA are not considered regulatory provisions, an Estimated Annual Net Cost to Business (EANDCB) has not been monetised for the draft bill. However, for measures identified as regulatory provisions, the IA provides a reasonable indication of the scale of business impact, in line with RPC guidance for primary legislation. It is noted that the proposals are not expected to have direct impacts on small or micro businesses.

Future Scrutiny and Recommendations

The RPC anticipates scrutinising a final stage IA post-PLS but before the Bill is introduced to Parliament. Opinions on IAs for two elements of the draft Bill, the Luxembourg Rail Protocol and the power to make or amend rail markets legislation, have also been provided by the RPC.

Overview of Related Proposals

The Luxembourg Rail Protocol

One of the proposals under consideration is the implementation of the Luxembourg Rail Protocol, which would provide a new power to make future regulations. This regulatory change is essential for the full implementation of the Protocol and would have far-reaching implications for the rail industry.

Power to make or amend rail markets legislation

Another key proposal is the inclusion of a power in primary legislation that would allow the Government to make amendments to rail markets regulation through secondary legislation. This power is crucial for ensuring flexibility and responsiveness in the regulation of rail markets.

Overall, the RPC’s opinion on the draft Rail Reform Bill and related proposals provides valuable insights into the potential impacts and considerations associated with the proposed changes to the railway industry. As the scrutiny process continues, stakeholders and policymakers will need to carefully evaluate these opinions and recommendations to ensure that the Bill is in the best interest of the public and the rail sector.