I wrote to my MP about this very issue a couple of months ago, explaining that ATOC are abusing their position by making sure that their £4.99 iPhone app is the

I wrote to my MP about this very issue a couple of months ago, explaining that ATOC are abusing their position by making sure that their £4.99 iPhone app is the only option available. At the time I wanted to build something for Android, but was put off by cases just like this one. Here's the reply: "Dear Mr , Thank you for your e-mail of the 23 August. The ORR regularly monitors Network Rail's operations both annually and more comprehensively periodically. Network Rail operates under a network licence. This licence contains a set of conditions under which Network Rail must operate. Network Rail is also accountable under its licence. The ORR's monitoring and enforcement of Network Rail operates under a regulatory framework designed to provide effective incentives, rewarding Network Rail for doing a good job. Where necessary, the ORR may enforce compliance with the network licence if Network Rail fails to fulfil its obligations, and we may also impose monetary penalties. As the monopoly owner and operator of the UK rail network, it has control over timetabling and its relevant data. As you highlight, ATOC use this data for its National Rail Enquiries services, in agreement with Network Rail. Distribution of this information is at the discretion of Network Rail. Its funding is derived from track access charges and station leases. It also gets a Government grant based on network improvements agreed with the Department for Transport. All funding information can be found on Network Rail's website (www.networkrail.co.uk) whilst all reviews from the ORR can be found on its website (www.rail-reg.gov.uk). Thank you for taking the trouble to contact me. Yours sincerely Richard Benyon MP" tl;dr: Network Rail operates under a network license and is regulated by the ORR (i.e. it's effectively government controlled) but that license says that they can distribute data however they see fit.