§ Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if his Department will give Government grant towards the proposed piggyback railfreight project to link the West Coast Main Line with mainland Europe. [58966]
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§ Ms Glenda JacksonFull grade piggyback would need considerable investment in infrastructure improvements and significant Government grant support. Railtrack has been in discussion with DETR officials for many months about the scheme.
Ministers are aware of recent press speculation that Railtrack is minded not to got through with the scheme and instead to propose an alternative freight upgrade to a smaller gauge but over more of the network. We have yet to receive a grant application from Railtrack. Any such application will be treated on its merits.