The problems were further fuelled by GNER 's poor profitability , which had been linked to the company 's overbidding for the franchise coupled to what proved to be crippling premium repayments to the government . The company blamed the effects of the 7/7 terrorist attacks , increased electricity prices , and increased competition from low-cost airlines for the decline in passenger numbers . It also faced a growing challenge from the revitalised West Coast services operated by Virgin Trains . The company attempted to address the problem by waiving booking fees on internet sales , cutting staff numbers , and raising fares and car-parking charges where the market could bear it . In a press interview in September 2006 , GNER 's ex-chief Christopher Garnett hinted at a bleak future for GNER and the franchising system , claiming that the trend among TOCs to overbid for the renewal of franchises would result in a financially unsustainable railway
7/7 terrorist attacks
7 July 2005 London bombings
Great North Eastern Railway