Train Companies respond to the budget

In response to the Budget, Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies, said:

“The Chancellor’s decision to make no further reduction in capital spending alongside specific pledges on projects, such as improvements on the line to Sheffield and between Liverpool and Leeds, are welcome recognition of the central role that transport links have in driving economic growth.

“The Chancellor is absolutely right that we need to prioritise capital projects with a significant return to the economy. Train operators believe they have a major role to play in helping to increase the focus on projects which deliver value for money for taxpayers as well as improving services for passengers.

“At the same time, the squeeze on current spending and possible Government departments cuts of 25% over the next four years should not be at the expense of good value schemes which promote rail travel as an environmentally friendly form of transport.”

ENDS