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Government recognises rail investment is key to Britain's transport future
date 15 January 2009 source ATOC type Press release
The Association of Train Operating Companies welcomes the Government’s commitment to put rail at the centre of a transport system fit for the 21st century.
Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of ATOC, said:
“Geoff Hoon’s announcement is a bold step forward to improve the rail network offering the promise of new and faster journeys, investment in much needed rail capacity and electrification of key lines.
“The Government has made a commitment to investing in rail that will put it at the centre of a transport system fit for the 21st century - one that is designed to drive our economy forward.
”A new high speed north-south line provides an opportunity for train operators to offer more seats and reduce journey times. It is vital that train operators, with their understanding of passenger needs, are fully involved in considering the case for high speed services and look forward to working on this with the new company – High Speed 2.
“We warmly welcome the support for further electrification of the rail network. It is an endorsement of the work carried out by train operators and industry partners and is a vote of confidence in rail.
“This work shows that a strong business case already exists for the further electrification of the Midland Main Line and the Great Western Main Line. Rail is already the greenest form of transport and further electrification will make it even more so.”
