Theresa Villiers has set out plans to improve Britain’s rail services by giving passengers value for money and tackling overcrowding.
The Shadow Transport Secretary outlined the conclusions of our rail review in an eight-point plan designed to reform Britain’s rail network and provide a long-term vision for Britain’s railways.
She stressed that our report, Getting the best for passengers, would “provide practical solutions to concerns rail users every day”:
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A high speed line linking London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds
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Putting passengers first by introducing a Passenger Champion to hold Network Rail and train franchise operators to account when they fail
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A reformed Network Rail
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Better cooperation between track and train
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Longer, better franchises for train operators so they can invest in longer trains and longer platforms
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Improving innovation in rail improvements
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An end to Whitehall meddling in areas like timetabling and buying new rolling stock
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A moratorium on building on disused rail paths
Theresa warned, “Our rail network is suffering from chronic levels of over-crowding. We desperately need new capacity – longer trains, longer platforms and, ultimately, additional lines.”
And she stressed, “After twelve years of disappointment under a Labour Government people know the only way to see Britain’s railways improve is through a change of Government. Our rail review shows the Conservatives have forward looking ideas to make the changes people want to see.”
Watch Theresa set out our long-term vision for Britain's rail services
Download 'Conservative Rail Review: Getting the best for passengers'