9. 8. Debate on the Economy, Infrastructure and Skills Committee Report: ‘On the right track? The Rail Franchise and South Wales Metro’

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:42 pm on 27 September 2017.

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Photo of Russell George Russell George Conservative 2:42, 27 September 2017

Finally, in the response—recommendation 14—there is a strong suggestion that the Welsh Government may be moving away from running freight on the core Valleys lines. This is a move that could have a significant knock-on effect for businesses wanting to use the lines to move goods in or out by rail in the future, and reduce opportunities to move freight off our roads. It is not to be taken lightly, and I trust there will be a thorough evaluation of costs and benefits both now and in the future before irreversible decisions are taken. I look forward to the debate today and hearing Members’ views, and comments from the Cabinet Secretary.