Campaign for Better Transport responds to the King’s Speech
Responding to the King’s Speech today, Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said:
“The inclusion of the Railways and Passenger Benefits Bill confirms the Government’s commitment to one of the most significant reforms to Britain’s railways in a generation. Bringing track and train together under a more passenger-focused system has the potential to improve reliability, simplicity and accountability across the network. As well as growing passenger demand, it is crucial that the importance of rail freight continues to be recognised in the legislation as a national priority.
“We also welcome the Northern Powerhouse Rail Bill, which recognises the urgent need to address decades of underinvestment in transport infrastructure across the North, alongside the Energy Independence Bill, which comes at a crucial time given continuing energy price volatility and geopolitical instability. But energy independence will only succeed if accompanied by a stronger focus on the most energy efficient forms of transport, including public transport, walking and cycling.
“The Overnight Visitor Levy Bill is also an important recognition that local areas need more powers and funding flexibility to invest in the transport connectivity and public realm their communities rely upon.”
Expressing concern about proposals for further major road expansion and airport growth including in today’s speech, Mr Plowden added:
“Building ever more road capacity cannot be the default answer to congestion and connectivity challenges. The Lower Thames Crossing risks repeating a familiar pattern where new road capacity simply generates more traffic over time. Similarly, airport expansion is increasingly difficult to justify in the context of the climate crisis and long-term energy price uncertainty. Government should instead develop a far more ambitious strategy for international rail connectivity, responding to growing public demand for rail alternatives to short-haul flights.”
ENDS
For further information please contact the press office on 07984 773 468 (calls only no texts) or communications@bettertransport.org.uk.
Notes to Editors
- Campaign for Better Transport operates in England and Wales. Campaign for Better Transport’s vision is for all communities to have access to high-quality, sustainable transport that meets their needs, improves quality of life, reduces inequality, and supports a vibrant, productive and decarbonised economy. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).
