Cuerpo, who also serves as economy minister, is to hold these responsibilities until a government is formed after the 29 November election. EFE and Europa Press reported that Sánchez opted for an interim arrangement rather than appointing a new minister just weeks before the vote.
The collision of two high-speed trains in Toledo province on 28 October killed 69 people, according to the reported toll. Puente’s departure and the reassignment of responsibilities are a political consequence of the disaster; they do not establish the findings of the investigation into its causes.