- New direct rail link between UK and Germany could boost
tourism, create jobs and help stimulate economic growth as part
of the Plan for Change
- Joint taskforce will be established between Governments to
pave the way for direct services within the next decade
- Move forms part of the Government's wider plan to boost
international rail connectivity and deliver more travel options
for passengers
Millions of passengers could benefit from quicker and more
convenient travel across Europe as the UK and Germany establish a
joint taskforce to explore a new direct rail link between the two
countries.
The landmark partnership, agreed as part of a new Bilateral
Treaty to be signed by the Prime Minister and Chancellor Merz
today (Thursday 17 July), will pave the way for direct
international rail services that could boost tourism to the UK
and support jobs, as outlined in the Plan for Change, and
strengthen cross-border trade within the next decade.
This significant step forward on establishing direct rail
services comes as the UK and Germany commit to enhancing
sustainable transport links and collaborate in the field of
sustainable, innovative and universally accessible transport
solutions and mobility.
The joint taskforce will bring together transport experts from
both Governments to examine how to address the barriers to
establishing direct long-distance rail passenger services,
including establishing the necessary border and security
controls.
The collaboration will support the decarbonisation of transport
while strengthening connections and boosting trade between the UK
and Germany.
Transport Secretary, ,
said:
"We're pioneering a new era of European rail connectivity and are
determined to put Britain at the heart of a better-connected
continent.
“The Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie -
in just a matter of years, rail passengers in the UK could be
able to visit these iconic sights direct from the comfort of a
train, thanks to a direct connection linking London and Berlin.
"This landmark agreement – part of a new Treaty the Prime
Minister will sign with Chancellor Merz today - has the potential
to fundamentally change how millions of people travel between our
two countries, offering a faster, more convenient and
significantly greener alternative to flying.
"A new task force will bring our nations closer together and
create new opportunities for tourism, business and cultural
exchange, building on a landmark deal we signed earlier this year
to explore introducing direct services to Switzerland.
"The economic potential is enormous. A direct rail link would
support the creation of jobs and strengthen the vital trade links
that underpin our economic relationship with Germany. British
businesses will have better access to European markets, whilst
German companies will find it easier to invest and operate in the
UK.
"This is central to our Plan for Change – breaking down barriers,
thinking boldly about the future, and making long-term decisions
that better connect Britain to the world. Working with Germany,
we're building bridges between our people and paving the way for
a more sustainable, connected future."
The taskforce will examine commercial and technical requirements,
including safety standards, border arrangements and collaboration
with rail operators to make direct services a reality.
This partnership builds on both countries' commitment to
decarbonising transport and promoting sustainable mobility
solutions across Europe.
It follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between
the Transport Secretary and Swiss Federal
Councillor, Albert Rösti earlier this
year, which will lay the groundwork for future
commercial services to Switzerland.