MP calls for greater rail electrification towards North East (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine Liberal Democrats)

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine Liberal Democrats <info@aberdeensouthlibdems.org.uk>

MP calls for greater rail electrification towards North East

February 15, 2010 4:37 PM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

North East MP Malcolm Bruce has backed a report out today recommending greater electrification of the rail network and calling on it to be extended to North East Scotland.

The report from the influential House of Commons Transport Select Committee says that electrified trains can offer economic and environmental benefits, such as faster journey times, more seats, greater reliability, improved air quality and lower carbon emissions than their diesel equivalents. Malcolm Bruce MP: Gordon

It notes that only approximately 40% of the network is currently electrified.

Mr Bruce said:

"There has been increased investment in the railway network in the past 5 years but this has been largely skewed in favour of the South East of England for projects like the London Crossrail and Thameslink in the run up to the 2012 Olympics. Greater commitments further north would undoubtedly have an impact in improving rail connections between Scotland and England.

"Although Transport Scotland is responsible for maintaining and upgrading the railways in Scotland, I have written to the Transport minister to bring this important report to his attention and to ask how Transport Scotland is working with the Department of Transport in Whitehall to ensure the optimal range of services and connections for passengers in the North East."

Notes:

The House of Commons Transport Select Committee published its report on Priorities for investment in the railways (HC 38-I) today. It is available here:

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200910/cmselect/cmtran/38/38i.pdf