Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Vere of Norbiton on 19 February (HL1348), whether they intend to require that the line is (1) designed to accommodate rail freight, (2) to be electrified, and (3) to be provided with suitable rail freight terminal facilities to serve the freight logisitics facilities along the route of the line; what is the latest business case for East West Rail; and whether that business case includes consideration of any environmental benefits of rail freight use of that network.

The strategic scope for East West Rail is currently being developed, including options for depots. Electrification is being reconsidered after previously being descoped to reduce capital costs. At a minimum, passive provision is being provided in construction so that electrification may be implemented in the future subject to value for money and affordability. EWR Co. are considering provision for freight, ensuring the route will support existing freight, and are currently undertaking a study to understand potential freight use. The Western Section of East West Rail is moving towards its Full Business Case, whilst the Central Section is at SOBC stage. As the business cases continue to develop, they will consider the benefits of freight.