MP Bob Seely is seeking clarity over the South Western Railway franchise — which includes Island Line — following concerns raised about the future of the franchise this week.

Mr Seely is asking the government to make a statement about the future of SWR, following losses of £137m and several strikes by workers.

The train operator runs services from London Waterloo, Britain’s busiest station, to Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire and the South West, as well as operating Island Line.

Mr Seely said he is keen to ensure any potential changes to the management of Island Line will not impact on passengers, and the £26 million investment into the Isle of Wight railway will be delivered as planned.

He said: “I have put down a written question asking the Secretary of State for Transport to make a statement on the future of South Western Railway and the forthcoming investment in Island Line.

“I will be seeking confirmation that the government will take any necessary action to ensure scheduled services are unaffected.

"With regard to Island Line, the £26 million secured in September was signed off by the Department of Transport, as it is essentially government investment, and therefore I have no reason to believe it will not go ahead, as planned.

"The last conversation I had with the Secretary of State for Transport about Island Line and transport on the Island was this Wednesday (January 8).

“As we have seen over recent weeks, the current infrastructure on Island Line has more than reached the end of its natural life, and it is essential that the investment in refurbished rolling stock, the new passing loop and improved track proceeds on the agreed timescales.

"I will endeavour to provide further updates in due course.”

The RMT union, which called the December strike, has called for nationalisation of the franchise.