Parallel Lines

Anna-Jane Hunter and Tony Miles discuss the state of the UK's railways in early 2025, progress with creating GBR, thoughts from the Secretary of State for Transport on resolving ongoing industrial unrest and much more. Thoughts also turn to Ireland and a positive feeling in the country about its rail network. Finally; is the Government in favour of Open Access train operators or not?

Anna-Jane and Tony reflect on the early impact of the new Government's plan for Britain's railways, train performance, punctuality and a host of other railway-related topics as 2024 draws to a close.

Anna-Jane and Tony turn to politics with their guest Olly Glover MP.

Newly elected Liberal Democrat MP for Didcot and Wantage, Olly has spent all his working life on the railways, including time with Train Operating Companies and Network Rail. Since recording the podcast Olly has been chosen to serve on the cross-party Transport select committee.

Anna-Jane Hunter and Tony Miles are joined by the legendary railway journalist and industry commentator Roger Ford for a look at the next steps for rail in the UK and the challenges facing Great British Railways as the new Government's plans are developed.

Anna-Jane and Tony reflect on announcements following the General Election and consider some of the challenges that lie ahead for the new Government as it seeks to reform the railways.

Anna-Jane Hunter and Tony Miles talk to Jo Kaye - Chief Executive at the Railway Benefit Fund about its work and discuss railway operations and performance with Jo who was previously a network Rail Route MD and a Strategy and Capacity Planning Director.

Anna-Jane and Tony are on location at the annual sleepout for Railway Children. They discuss ownership of railways, privatisation, whether a return to a 'nationalised' railway is possible and what would be the challenges if it was attempted.

Anna-Jane Hunter and Tony Miles talk about railways in the UK, attempt to unravel a few mysteries and engage in some mythbusting along the way. This episode looks at working practices, how they developed over many years and the reasons why some things behind recent disputes aren't as simple as they might seem.

Anna-Jane Hunter and Tony Miles continue to discuss railways in the UK. This time they reflect on journeys and where things could probably be better.

Anna-Jane and Tony launch the series with a discussion about introducing new trains in the UK and talk to guest Robin Davis about the contentious matter of seats.