[2][3] In addition to its representation of ordinary passengers, on whose behalf it campaigns for improvements to rail services, it undertakes research for the purpose of lobbying political parties towards the ends of reintroducing a vertically-integrated, publicly owned and operated British railway network.

The system was effectively renationalised briefly to prevent rail companies collapsing, as acknowledged by the ONS at the time.

[6] The Labour Party committed itself to a formal renationalisation of the rail network following their victory in the 2024 general election.

[7] The King's speech in July 2024 described a new public body for the purpose named Great British Railways.

[8] Renationalisation is to be achieved simply by not renewing the remaining franchising arrangements as they expire, which is expected to take place over the following years.