Context
North Wales is concerned about obtaining the full benefit of HS2 without proper rail connectivity. Electrification of the north Wales line is seen as crucial.
Question
The Secretary of State must recognise that north Wales can obtain the benefit of HS2 only with proper connectivity, which means electrification of the north Wales line. Will he guarantee that this will take place? If not, will he accept that this is a betrayal of the interests of the people of north Wales?
Answer from David Davies
I do not necessarily think that it would require electrification of the north Wales line. With respect, there are proposals at the moment to make improvements to the north Wales line that are based more around changes to signalling, which will allow more trains to run on the track. I do not pretend to be a rail engineer, but the proposals I have seen do not include electrification. They would decrease journey times across the north Wales line and, feeding into Crewe, would therefore decrease journey times between north Wales and London and bring benefits to all passengers.
Not addressed: Guarantee of electrification or recognition as betrayal if not done
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