Competition regulator backs scrapping of rail franchises

CMA says more direct competition could lead to lower fares, greater efficiency and more effective use of capacityBritain’s rail system should be overhauled to allow rival train firms to run services on the same routes, eventually scrapping franchises for major intercity lines, according to the competition authorities.The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), in a report published on Tuesday, said that more direct competition could lead to lower fares, greater efficiency and more effecti