At a key inter-ministerial meeting in London this week, Cabinet
Secretary for Economy, Transport and North Wales, , and UK Government Rail Minister, , discussed the Welsh
Government's priorities for UK rail reform.
These include developing a locally driven and empowered business
unit for Great British Railways in Wales, delivering on
commitments to create a Welsh enhancements programme and giving
Wales a greater say on the specification of cross-border
services.
Commenting following the meeting, Transport Secretary, said:
“I'm excited about the UK Government's plans for rail reform.
We've committed to working in partnership, alongside industry, to
shape a bright future for rail in Wales.
“The decision which finally calls time on the broken rail
franchising system was an important step. It means the Wales and
Borders rail service will remain in public hands – making it
easier to integrate rail with bus and deliver on our vision of
One Network, One Timetable, One Ticket.
“We're also working closely with the UK Government to develop a
jointly agreed programme of future rail infrastructure
enhancements in Wales."
Rail Minister, said:
“We are determined to reform our railways to deliver better
services for passengers across all of Great Britain and create a
new long-term strategy for a modern, integrated network with
passengers at its heart.
“I look forward to working closely with the Welsh Government on
its transport priorities and our shared ambitions for rail,
delivering infrastructure improvements across the country to
boost opportunities and economic growth.”
