EDM 1253: Reductions to CrossCountry trains catering services

That this House is concerned that CrossCountry trains is the latest passenger train operator to announce cuts to the provision of on-board catering services on long-distance rail services; is further concerned that these short-sighted cuts risks hundreds of railway jobs, while pushing passengers away from the railway network; notes that the provision of rail catering services across the industry has been under attack for many years by train companies seeking to cut costs and staffing at the expense of passenger service; further notes that there has already been a significant reduction in catering services since privatisation 30 years ago, with nearly all restaurant areas on trains abolished and the traditional buffet counter now also disappearing on many services; believes the availability of snacks, drinks and in some cases light meals is an added value to the travel experience on our railways; further believes that on-board catering workers should be celebrated by train operators as an important part of the on-board team, offering passengers excellent customer service and providing reassurance; and calls on CrossCountry to reverse these cuts and on the Government to ensure that Great British Railways presides over expanded and properly funded catering provision, staffed in-house.