🕒 Article read time: 2 minutes
Rail freight to remain private under Labour's rail reform proposals
Whilst Labour outlined plans to nationalise consumer routes, it has no plans to nationalise rail freight companies, and would allow open access operators to continue. It would also leave rolling stock companies in the private sphere.
Responding to Shadow Secretary of State Louise Haigh’s announcement regarding the Labour Party’s proposals for rail and specifically rail freight, Ellis Shelton, Senior Policy Advisor at Logistics UK, says: “Logistics UK welcomes the Labour Party’s support for rail freight and recognition of the significant contribution it makes to the UK economy and role it can play in reducing carbon emissions.
“We will examine the suggestions in detail, but it is important that any proposals for increasing rail freight are supported by appropriate incentives and policies, including the creation of a national freight network with rail playing a key part in it, support for the establishment of rail freight terminals, and a commitment to electrify the rail network.”
The Rail Freight Group (RFG) has also welcomed this news. Director General Maggie Simpson said: “We are pleased that the Labour Party has highlighted the huge economic potential of rail freight and is committed to measures including statutory duties for freight and long-term growth targets. Our members are working to get more goods moving by rail and we strongly welcome this support.”
John Smith, Chief Executive Officer of GB Railfreight, commented: “Rail freight helps to deliver millions of items to consumers across the UK each year, from pinot grigio to paracetamol, all the while helping to reduce road congestion and carbon emissions. We look forward to the opportunities Labour’s plans may present to our industry in the future.”
Published On: 02/05/2024 14:00:00
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