Our railways are the backbone of Britain. They connect communities, facilitate commerce, and enable millions of people to travel confidently and safely. Every day, the British Transport Police (BTP) works tirelessly to maintain the security and efficiency of this vital network.

But the BTP is facing an unprecedented crisis, including:
• A £8.5 million funding deficit that threatens the safety and efficiency of our railways.
• Closure of stations.
• Potential widespread job losses across the force

This reduction in capacity will have severe consequences for passengers, rail workers, and the overall efficiency of train services.

The BTP plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of everyone who uses and works on the railways. They handle crime prevention and investigation, respond to incidents, and minimize disruptions on the network. With fewer officers and stations, response times will increase, leaving passengers and rail workers more vulnerable to crime and accidents. The rise in assaults on passengers, which reached a record 9,542 incidents in 2023-24, underscores the urgent need for a fully funded BTP.

Rail workers rely on the BTP for their safety and support. From handling incidents of harassment and assault to ensuring a secure working environment, the presence of BTP officers is vital. The proposed station closures and job cuts will leave significant gaps in coverage, particularly in the north of England, where there may be no BTP presence between Preston and Scotland. This lack of support puts rail workers at greater risk and undermines their ability to perform their duties effectively.

BTP officers are essential in managing incidents that cause delays, such as trespassing, suicides, and cable theft. Their prompt response helps to minimise disruptions and keep trains running on time. Without adequate funding, the BTP's ability to respond quickly and efficiently will be compromised, leading to longer delays and increased frustration for passengers.

That is why we are calling on the Government to fully fund the British Transport Police to avert this crisis.

Investing in the BTP is not just about protecting jobs; it's about safeguarding the public, supporting rail workers, and ensuring the reliability of our train services.

We urge you to intervene and ensure that the BTP receives the necessary resources to maintain a safe and efficient rail network.