Daily News
CBI Reaction To Government Proposals For High Speed Rail
The CBI today commented on the Government’s White Paper setting out proposals for a new high speed rail network.
John Cridland, CBI Deputy Director-General, said:
"For much of the last century, there was simply not enough long-term planning on our railways, so it is encouraging to see this kind of visionary thinking. We need investment in our railways over the long-term to avoid congestion, especially on the crowded West Coast mainline. The strong long-term pipeline for engineering, construction, jobs and growth is also very welcome.
"But high speed rail will come with a hefty price tag and sooner or later the question of who pays for it will have to be answered. Private sector support for the concept of high speed rail should not be misread as a willingness to write a blank cheque – at a time of severely stretched public finances a full and open consultation on private funding will be essential. Equally, high speed rail must not be allowed to drain investment from other transport priorities.
"The Mawhinney review of future potential links with Heathrow is an important element of today’s announcement."