Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government when communities will be able to apply for the remainder of the £500 million fund for the reopening of railway lines.

The Secretary of State for Transport is inviting MPs to work with local authorities and community groups to come forward with proposals to explore. He has set out how this should be done and officials are providing further guidance and assistance. He will consider the proposals received and expects to make a further announcement on development funding in the autumn this year.