Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of international rail travel from Ashford International on economic growth.

The Government is keen to see the reinstatement of international rail services in Kent and recognises the benefits that international connectivity brings to local economies and to the UK.

The Government is engaging with Kent stakeholders, including MPs, councillors and representative organisations to discuss this issue and is committed to continue to explore all potential solutions including the reinstatement of these services by potential new operators.