UK to renationalise major train operator GWR within months
The UK government has confirmed that Great Western Railway, which runs services between London and South Wales, will pass into public ownership within months. The move marks the next phase of Labour's plan to bring train operators back under state control.
The UK Department for Transport has confirmed that Great Western Railway will return to public ownership within months. GWR is one of Britain's largest passenger franchises, serving routes from London Paddington to South Wales and the southwest of England.
The transfer is part of the timetable set out under Labour's Railways Act, which entered force earlier this year. Once the current concession ends, ministers say privatised routes will be folded one by one into the new public body Great British Railways.
The operator and rail unions stress the change will not disrupt timetables for passengers. Critics warn the renationalisation wave is unlikely to deliver cheaper fares in the short term, while the government argues that central planning will improve service quality and on-time performance over the next few years.
More from Europe
US warns EU it will revert to higher tariffs if Brussels misses July 4 deadline
The US trade representative has formally warned the European Union that tariffs on EU goods will revert to Trump-era highs if Brussels does not ratify the new trade framework by July 4. The bloc will weigh its response in the coming days.
CBRT April Inflation Assessment: Annual inflation rises to 32.37 percent
The Turkish Central Bank released its April inflation assessment, showing consumer prices rose 4.18 percent month-on-month, while annual inflation climbed to 32.37 percent—up 1.50 percentage points. Energy prices surged 14.4 percent, with the underlying trend moving higher.
Airlines can cancel flights in advance over fuel shortages under new plans
Under new UK government plans, airlines can cancel flights in advance due to fuel shortages rather than wait until the last minute. This allows passengers time to rebook and make alternative arrangements.