The Railway Industry Association (RIA), the voice of the UK rail supply community has set out its key priorities ahead of the Queen’s Speech tomorrow (May 11).
Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), said: “The Queen’s Speech provides an opportunity for the Government to set out its legislative agenda for the coming year, and when it comes to rail, it could not come at a more pivotal time.
“As restrictions ease following the Coronavirus pandemic, the Railway Industry Association (RIA) and our members would like to see the Government set out a positive vision for our railways, supporting passengers as they return to the network and backing rail as a key catalyst of the UK’s economic bounceback.
“We’d ask for the long-awaited Williams Rail Review to be published and delivered, maximising the full potential of rail. We’d like to see support to further decarbonise the rail network, through a rolling programme of electrification and fleet orders of low carbon rolling stock; visibility of rail projects, with the publication of the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline; and delivery of major projects, including HS2 in full, Northern Powerhouse Rail, East West Rail, Trans Pennine Route Upgrade and Crossrail 2. RIA would also like to see support for digital signalling work, to ensure we are ready for the significant amount of signalling units that will become life expired in the next 15 years.
“Delivering in these key areas will support the UK’s economic revival post-pandemic, and build capabilities in a growing international industry, helping support a prosperous ‘Global Britain’.”
Photo credit: Railway Industry Association
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