The majority of the main political parties published their General Election manifestos this week with rail policy prominent among them.
Stating that it is the only party with a “credible plan for rail reform”, the Conservative party’s manifesto says that if re-elected it would:
- Deliver its plan for Northern Powerhouse Rail.
- Boost connectivity in the Midlands by funding the Midlands Rail Hub in full.
- Improve accessibility at 100 railway stations.
- Upgrade railways in the South West.
- Invest £1 billion to electrify the North Wales Main Line and address pinch points on the A75 between Gretna and Stranraer.
- Reopen Beeching lines and stations.
Labour, meanwhile, has vowed to “overhaul Britain’s railways”, putting an end to what it calls “14 years of Conservative neglect”. It’s pledges include:
- Transferring Britain’s railways to public ownership.
- Improving connectivity across northern England.
- Promoting and increasing the use of rail freight.
- Creating a new National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority to oversee major infrastructure projects.
- Introducing a new passenger watchdog.
Commenting on the parties’ various plans, RIA Chief Executive Darren Caplan said: “It is good to see rail featuring strongly within the political party election manifesto plans this week. This prominence reflects the importance of UK rail to delivering improvements in economic and productivity growth, which all parties say they are committed to delivering for the good of the country.
“It is encouraging to see near agreement from the parties on the urgent need for rail reform and a recognition that a long-term pipeline can give certainty to rail suppliers. We also welcome any plans which can improve the oversight and management of major projects.
“The Railway Industry Association recently published its own RIA Rail Manifesto and we now look forward to holding whoever forms the next Government to account on our asks, for that long-term plan, for prompt implementation on rail reform, to accelerate new train orders and low carbon network upgrades, to support a sustainable supply chain, and to leverage private investment.
“We and our members now look forward to working with the new Government on building an even better railway for customers – both passengers and freight – and one which also delivers value-for-money, world-class, track and train for the taxpayer in future too.”
RIA’s manifesto can be viewed here.
Image credit: RIA
