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Rail Freight Growth
08 September 2026
Lead MP
Heidi Alexander
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Transport
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Heidi Alexander raised concerns about rail freight growth in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Government is setting an additional target for rail freight, aiming for a 40% increase in freight moved by rail in net tonne kilometres by 2040, alongside a previously affirmed target of at least a 75% increase by 2050. The new target is expected to increase the value of goods moved by rail freight from £33.7bn to £49.5bn and save a million tonnes of CO₂ per year. The Railways Bill will ensure this target is embedded in Great British Railways' decision-making process.
Heidi Alexander
Lab
Lewisham East
The Government aims to increase rail freight by setting a target for a 40% increase in freight moved by rail in net tonne kilometres by 2040, alongside a previously affirmed target of at least a 75% increase by 2050. Additionally, there are expectations of a 65% increase in High Value Goods, a 45% increase in Construction Goods, and a 7% increase in Critical Goods. The Railways Bill will ensure that the duty to grow rail freight will be embedded in the new body’s decision-making process, providing statutory status for the target.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.