BCC RESPONSE TO RAILWAYS WHITE PAPER
25/07/07 | 15:35
BCC Head of Policy Natalie Evans said:
“For the UK economy to sustain its success, we need a transport network that can cope with increasing passenger and freight demands. The White Paper admits that the UKs railways are already buckling under the pressure of overcrowding, a pressure that is keenly felt by the businesses and employees relying on rail travel everyday. We are disappointed then that the Government has not shown more ambition in meeting commuter needs. As it is, the proposals mean that the rail network will simply be running to stand still. Without an overarching approach to the country’s entire transport network, making sure that road policies are fully integrated with rail improvements, proposals offering extra carriages and longer platforms, welcome though they are, will do little but tinker at the edges of passenger demands.
We’re pleased with the commitments to improving freight capacity. The promise of £200 million of extra investment in a rail freight network offering greater shipping choices to firms is welcome. We hope this money will be spent where most effective, particularly around the countries major container ports, delivering the 24/7 freight network our members need.”
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT:NOTES TO EDITORS:The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is the National Voice of Local Business.
The BCC sits at the heart of a powerful nationwide network of Accredited Chambers of Commerce serving business across the UK, which employ over five million people.