We fully support increased devolution and we have been working closely with devolved funders and decision makers to help secure its benefits.

We have increased our monitoring of Network Rail in Wales and have followed this through to more regular and detailed advice to the Welsh Government.  We have also been working closely with the Welsh Government on our 2018 Periodic Review of Network Rail; the Welsh Government is a member of our Joint Steering Group for this work, together with DfT, Transport Scotland and Network Rail.

Specifically on the new rail franchise, we have been advising Transport for Wales on regulatory issues.  We recently met all the bidders for the franchise individually to answer questions on their proposals.  We will be meeting the bidders again shortly. I am the responsible director for this advice within ORR.  

Given this context, as you will understand, we will not be submitting written evidence to the inquiry. 

If I can provide any further help, please let me know.  

Yours sincerely

John Larkinson