PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
Night Riviera Sleeper Service (8 November 2023)

That this House recognises that the Night Riviera Sleeper service, operated by Great Western Railway (GWR) between London Paddington and Penzance, plays a vital role in providing sustainable and low-carbon travel between the capital and west of England; believes the staff employed on the Night Riviera provide a high-quality service to passengers; notes that research has found that travel by train is seven times more environmentally friendly than flying; further believes that reliable and high-quality rail links to areas popular with tourists support local economies and jobs; further notes that around 100 Sleeper services have been cancelled between September and November this year due to engineering works; further believes that wherever possible cancellations should be avoided and alternatives such as changes to the route or timing of the service should be considered; further understands that the rolling stock used to operate the Night Riviera is reaching the end of its natural lifespan; understands that GWR’s business plan for 2022 requires it to provide proposals to the Government about the future provision of the Night Riviera Sleeper; further understands that, that in light of this, concerns have been raised by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers about the future of the Night Riviera Sleeper; therefore calls on GWR and the Government to commit to maintaining the service, ensure all jobs on the Night Riviera Sleeper will be protected, and set out a plan for investing in this vital service.

Sponsored by:
John McDonnell (Labour)