Rail Investment

Debate between Chris White and Julie Hilling

Thursday 17th February 2011 Westminster Hall

[Chris White]

Those last two interventions show the similarities and differences in how our two countries operate.

The Committee says that we are reaching full capacity and that we need to put extra capacity in place, and I respect that. However, high-speed rail is not the only answer, and I believe that that should be investigated. The Department for Transport’s report on alternatives to high-speed rail, rail package 2, was able to deliver the necessary capacity improvements at a superior rate of return, and it was costed at a mere £2 billion. We should be considering all these options rather than deciding on large-scale prestige projects. Further areas of concern could be highlighted, such as the potential economic disadvantage that may be caused to other areas of the country that do not have access to the high-speed network.

As I said, I am grateful that the Committee chose to consider the matter, and I believe that it will provide a platform for real debate on our rail investment priorities over the coming years. I hope that everyone will engage in it fully.

[Julie Hilling]

I keep hearing that there are alternatives. I wonder what alternative there is for land-based travel from Scotland and the north of England to London if it is not high-speed rail.

[Chris White]

I had come to the end of my speech, but I shall answer the hon. Lady’s question. We have heard much about north-south and east-west, but I have to admit that I am quite parochial about the matter. I am from the south midlands, and I believe that there are different options. We have good services now; what we need is greater capacity.