Northern Rail public ownership

That this House welcomes the nationalisation of Northern Rail from 1 March 2020; notes that over the last decade £178million has been paid out in shareholder dividends to the Northern train operating companies; further notes that public ownership will mean more money can be invested in making vital improvements to the railway; recognises that public ownership means the railway will be more accountable and be able to put passengers first; further recognises the importance of keeping safety-critical guards on Northern trains and ensuring stations are properly staffed; and calls on the Government to ensure that Northern Rail remains permanently under public ownership.