Context
Rail plays a vital role in the economy of north Wales, but recent improvements have not restored pre-COVID service levels or reliability. The current situation sees more cancellations and poorer reliability than other parts of the west coast franchise.
Question
Andrew Ranger welcomed the announcement of 12 additional services per week between Holyhead and London but noted that this is a shadow of the pre-covid timetable, which saw up to 14 daily direct services. He highlighted the need for economic growth, tourism, and access to employment across north Wales and beyond, requiring a return to more frequent and reliable service patterns. What measures is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that happens?
Answer from The Secretary of State for Transport (Heidi Alexander)
The uplift in service levels between London and Holyhead from this Sunday is indeed welcome, but I recognise that Wales has not seen its fair share of funding historically. I am committed to continued rail infrastructure investment in Wales to release capacity and improve reliability.
Not addressed: The Secretary of State did not provide specific measures being taken to ensure a return to more frequent and reliable service patterns.
Was this summary accurate? Tell us
How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)