BCC warns parties: Action not talk is needed on high-speed rail
16/11/09 | 09:00
Businesses across the country have added their full backing to the creation of a UK-wide high-speed rail (HSR) network, according to a new report released today by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
The report, which is supported by Network Rail and Greengauge 21, argues that the business and environmental case for an HSR network has clearly been made – offering revenues and benefits to the economy worth almost £55 billion.
Businesses believe that funding solutions need to be found as soon as possible, so that construction can begin during the life of the next Parliament.
Despite cross-party political consensus on the importance of HSR, the BCC is urging all parties to go much further, and sign a binding agreement that commits the next government – from whatever party – to action the work already conducted by HS2 Ltd, the company established by the current government to consider the case for high-speed rail.
The business group argues that HS2’s work is vital to the future success of the UK economy, and it must not be unravelled or delayed after a General Election or because of tight spending constraints.
Commenting, David Frost, Director General of the BCC, said:
“One of the most crucial factors in enabling business growth is the quality of a country’s infrastructure. For this reason, we are putting our full backing behind a comprehensive high-speed rail network.
“Congestion on our transport system is already costing businesses £23bn a year in lost productivity. That is simply not sustainable if we want companies to thrive and our economy to grow.
“We know that HSR has been successful both here and abroad, and we know that the main political parties support it. What we want to see now is a move from simply talking about HSR, to a binding cross-party agreement that prevents politics and budget restraints from getting in the way of building this network.
“We have a history of delaying important infrastructure projects in this country, but this cannot be one of them.”
Iain Coucher, Chief Executive of Network Rail, added:
“High-speed rail will transform Britain. It promotes economic growth; is a low carbon option and will reduce congestion on roads and rails.
“Business support will be crucial to make a new comprehensive high-speed rail network a reality in Britain. We therefore welcome this latest report and support the BCC’s call for cross-party agreement. Together with Network Rail’s recent new lines study this report presents a strong business case for politicians to take decisive action.”
Jim Steer, Director of Greengauge 21, said:
“We know from opinion research that the public supports high-speed rail – 78% believe it is essential for our future – and this report reiterates the strong support from industry right across the country.
“Greengauge 21 backs the BCC call for political commitment to high-speed rail. The investment is needed to build the nation’s capacity for economic growth in a sustainable way.”
Click here to download a copy of the report in PDF format>>
Ends
Media Contact:
Sam Turvey
Tel: 020 7654 5813
Email: s.turvey@britishchambers.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
The BCC is establishing a Business Infrastructure Commission, which will be launched before the end of 2009.
Working with local Chambers of Commerce, we are campaigning for the political parties to commit to invest in our vital business infrastructure.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is the National Voice of Local Business.
The BCC sits at the heart of a powerful nationwide network of Accredited Chambers of Commerce serving business across the UK, which employ over five million people.