Written question asked by James Naish (Labour) on Thursday, 10 July 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 July 2025. It was answered by Simon Lightwood (Labour) on Friday, 18 July 2025 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Midland Main Line: Electrification

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the National Skills Academy for Rail’s finding that completing Midland Main Line electrification would create up to 4,300 jobs and more than 100 apprenticeships in the East Midlands.

Answer: I appreciate the investment opportunities that further electrification of the Midland Main Line could bring to the East Midlands but schemes that would have a more significant impact on economic growth have been prioritised as part of this Spending Review. There is still significant investment being made in rail. We also need a resilient and productive rail supply chain that invests in skills, technology, and innovation to reduce costs and increase competitiveness.

Secondary information