I know many people have suffered from the terrible disruption to Thameslink services since the introduction of the new timetable. As a commuter on the line, I’ve experienced first-hand the misery caused by mass, unexpected cancellations, station skipping, severely delayed trains and dangerously over-crowded carriages.

I have been warning Network Rail for months that I was concerned about preparations and planning for the new timetable. So I am angry and disappointed that this chaos has occurred and I held emergency meetings with the Transport Secretary and rail executives to discuss the situation.

In terms of the mistakes that have already been made, the Transport Secretary shares my deep anger and frustration and has set up an independent inquiry into what went so badly wrong.

It appears that errors were made by all involved. He is clear though that once this inquiry is complete those responsible will have to bear the consequences, up to and including, dismissals and review of franchise. Then, over the coming weeks, the full timetable will be restored, with the aim of it being completely introduced by the autumn.

On compensation, Thameslink have assured me that their compensation scheme will apply to delays against the old timetable and the new timetable. Separately, the Transport Secretary is developing a comprehensive compensation package. I hope that this will resemble the Southern package which gave passengers a month’s refund.

For more detail on all the Government’s plans, please do watch the Transport Secretary’s statement to the House in June.

As your local MP I will continue to pursue this issue over the weeks ahead and press for these urgently needed improvements.