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Rail Freight Growth
08 September 2026
Lead MP
Heidi Alexander
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyBusiness & Trade
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 the growth of rail freight, aiming for a 40% increase in freight moved by rail in net tonne kilometres by 2040, alongside existing targets for a 75% increase by 2050. The new target includes specific increases in High Value Goods (65%), Construction Goods (45%), and Critical Goods (7%). These measures aim to improve supply chain resilience, economic growth, and decarbonisation, with an estimated increase in the value of goods moved by rail from £33.7bn to £49.5bn and a saving of a million tonnes of CO₂ per year. The Railways Bill will provide statutory status for these targets.
Heidi Alexander
Lab
Lewisham East
The Government is setting an additional target for the growth of rail freight, aiming for a 40% increase in freight moved by rail in net tonne kilometres by 2040, alongside existing targets for a 75% increase by 2050. The new target includes specific increases in High Value Goods (65%), Construction Goods (45%), and Critical Goods (7%). These measures aim to improve supply chain resilience, economic growth, and decarbonisation, with an estimated increase in the value of goods moved by rail from £33.7bn to £49.5bn and a saving of a million tonnes of CO₂ per year. The Railways Bill will provide statutory status for these targets.
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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.