A Green MP will call for railways to be brought back into public control in the House of Commons.

Caroline Lucas, below, who represents Brighton Pavilion in Parliament, is to introduce a Bill to discuss the issue with colleagues.

Dr Lucas believes a gradual return to public ownership will provide better value for money to the taxpayer, improve services and help reduce greenhouse emissions.

Dr Lucas said: “Britain was once world famous for our trailblazing and hugely successful railways, but today’s privatised system is ripping off passengers, harming the economy and failing the environment.

“From my inbox, it’s clear that poor rail services and overpriced fares are amongst the biggest concerns for my constituents.

“A recent TUC report, The Great Train Robbery, showed train operators are dependent upon public subsidies to run services, with these same companies then turning over 90 per cent of their operating profits to shareholders.

“So I am calling on the Government to do the right thing and reunite the railways under public ownership, which could save over £1 billion a year of taxpayers’ money – an amount that could be spent on improving services and reducing fares.”