Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Statement by Baroness Vere of Norbiton on 29 January (HLWS69) which stated that "Wherever you live, you deserve a railway that widens your children’s horizon, gives you access to highly skilled, highly paid jobs, and provides a viable green alternative to getting in your car", how many people in England they estimate do not currently have access to such an alternative.

This Government’s vision is for a transport system that is an engine for economic growth, is more environmentally sustainable and improves quality of life within our communities. Passenger numbers on the railways have doubled since privatisation, and this growth has brought significant benefits to Britain’s economy and environment by relieving congestion on the roads, reducing carbon emissions and improving connectivity for businesses, commuters and leisure travellers.