Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Western Rail Link to Heathrow

Thursday 26 October 2023 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Tan Dhesi questioned the minister about the adequacy of progress on constructing the Western Rail Link to Heathrow.
  • Tan Dhesi inquired about meetings held with Heathrow airport and other stakeholders to progress the 4 mile rail link between Slough and Heathrow.
  • The Minister acknowledged post-pandemic changes have affected Heathrow's capacity to pre-fund 50% of the project.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Tan Dhesi Lab Slough
Transport
Context

Tan Dhesi has long championed the Western Rail Link, which would connect 20% of the UK population to Heathrow airport. The Government committed to it over a decade ago but no progress has been made.

Question

What assessment has he made of the adequacy of progress on constructing the Western Rail Link to Heathrow? He highlighted that despite long-standing commitment, there is no tangible progress and asked for an update.

Answer from Huw Merriman

The Government remains committed to improving rail access to Heathrow airport. The promoters are updating their proposal to ensure projects reflect the changed shape of rail demand and are affordable.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific timeline, funding details or concrete progress update on Western Rail Link construction

How: Under Review, Affordability Criteria

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Q2 Tan Dhesi Lab Slough
Transport
Context

The Western Rail Link is crucial for connecting Slough and Heathrow. Despite long-standing Government commitment, no progress has been made.

Question

What meetings has he had with Heathrow airport, Thames Valley chamber of commerce and other stakeholders to progress the vital 4 mile rail link between Slough and Heathrow? He highlighted previous commitments and lack of tangible action.

Answer from Huw Merriman

Thanking Tan Dhesi for championing rail projects, the Minister mentions that post-pandemic changes have impacted Heathrow's ability to pre-fund 50% of the project. The Government supports private enterprise-funded rail investments like Network North.

Not addressed: Details on recent meetings and discussions with stakeholders for progressing Western Rail Link

How: Cancelled Previous Decisions, Changes Post Pandemic

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