Government complacent over rail modernisation - Carmichael

12.29.23pm GMT Thu 18th Jan 2007

Commenting on reports that Dr Mike Mitchell, Director General of rail at the Department of Transport, today told the Public Accounts Select Committee that it was not realistic to guarantee commuters seats in the rush hour, Liberal Democrat Shadow Transport Secretary, Alistair Carmichael MP said:

"This demonstrates the complacency that bedevils government policy on our railways.

"We will never get the numbers of people out of cars and onto trains that is needed to halt climate change if this continues to be the Government's attitude."

Applicability: this item refers to England and Wales. Due to devolution, detailed policy may be different in other areas of the UK.