Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government, with reference to the report by the Campaign for Better Transport titled Runways to railways: unlocking the potential of the Channel Tunnel, what steps they will take to ensure that international rail connectivity is addressed within the current domestic rail reform agenda, to fully realise the economic and environmental benefits identified in the report.

The Government fully supports a thriving and competitive international rail passenger services market, given the benefits it can bring including potentially greater choice, new service offers and lower fares for passengers.

The Government welcomes the Campaign for Better Transport’s report, and recognises the significant growth potential of international rail connectivity. DfT officials are engaging proactively with international partners and industry counterparts, including prospective operators, to discuss the potential for new routes and services and help facilitate these where possible.