HC Deb 17 July 2001 vol 372 cc88-9W
Mr. Syms

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement on his plans to upgrade rail freight routes to major ports. [3553]

Mr. Jamieson

The amount of freight moved by rail has grown steadily over the period of this Government. Our 10-Year Plan for transport reinforces our commitment to ensure that that growth continues.

We have established the Strategic Rail Authority to implement detailed plans for rail freight. The SRA published its Freight Strategy in May. This includes plans for delivering a major programme of improvements to rail links to major ports.

Mr. Luff

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what assessment he has made of the potential for switching imports of fruit and vegetables from road to rail; and if he will make a statement. [4290]

Mr. Jamieson

The import of fruit and vegetables represents a significant opportunity for rail. The SRA's Freight Strategy, published in May, discusses a number of actions aimed at realising the potential of this market and at facilitating the establishment of sustainable international services through the Channel Tunnel.