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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 to increase by at least 40% in net tonne kilometres by 2040, with an estimated value increase from £33.7bn to £49.5bn and a reduction of a million tonnes of CO₂ annually. This target complements the existing goal of a 75% increase by 2050 and aims to increase volumes of High Value Goods by 65%, Construction Goods by 45%, and Critical Goods by 7%. The Railways Bill embeds this target in Great British Railways' decision-making process, ensuring its statutory status and the continued growth of rail freight.
Heidi Alexander
Lab
Lewisham East
The Government sets an additional target for rail freight to increase by at least 40% in net tonne kilometres by 2040, aiming to boost High Value Goods by 65%, Construction Goods by 45%, and Critical Goods by 7%. This move is expected to increase the value of goods moved by rail from £33.7bn to £49.5bn and save a million tonnes of CO₂ per year compared to road transport. The Railways Bill will ensure this target is part of Great British Railways' decision-making process.
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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.