🕒 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
Comments Section
If you are a Logistics UK member login to add comments.
News In Brief
Roadchef set to open a new Super 8 hotel
Leading motorway service brand, Roadchef has announced they will be launching the UK's second Super 8 by Wyndham Hotel at its Durham motorway services on the A1(M).
The new hotel is set to launch this May, following the brand's successful introduction last year. Roadchef is continuing its multi-million-pound investment into upgrading roadside hotels to better meet the needs of travelling guests including, of course, HGV drivers in need of a much-earned rest.
The first Super 8 by Wyndham hotel at Roadchef’s Chester MSA has recently achieved the highest level possible in global hotel company Wyndham’s Green Certification programme, which aims to promote sustainable practices at its 9,000-plus hotels around the world.
After opening last July, the Roadchef-run hotel has received Level 5 Expert status – making it one of the most sustainable in Wyndham’s portfolio.
Latest articles
90,000 HGV movements to be reduced as Bow Goods Yard plan approved
The approved redevelopment of Bow Goods Yard will transform East London’s rail freight capacity, creating a sustainable logistics hub aimed at boosting rail freight capacity and reducing road congestion and emissions.
Read time: 2 minutes
View article
Generation Logistics Case Study
Annabel Freeman, Associate Director, UK Investment - SEGRO
Read time: 2 minutes
View article
Ask the MAC
With Dan Crutchington, Manager – Compliance Information, Logistics UK
Read time: 2 minutes
View article
