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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 the growth of rail freight, aiming for a 40% increase in freight moved by rail in net tonne kilometres by 2040, along with a 75% increase by 2050. This target aims to increase the value of goods moved by rail from £33.7bn to £49.5bn and reduce CO₂ emissions by a million tonnes per year compared to road transport. The Railways Bill will embed this duty in the decision-making process of Great British Railways.
Heidi Alexander
Lab
Lewisham East
The Government is setting an additional target for rail freight to increase by 40% by 2040, with a goal of 75% by 2050. This includes a 65% increase in High Value Goods, 45% in Construction Goods, and 7% in Critical Goods. The target will increase the value of goods moved by rail and reduce CO₂ emissions compared to road transport. The Railways Bill will ensure the duty to grow rail freight is embedded in the new body’s decision-making.
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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.