Madam Speaker, the policy we inherited on the railways planned for decline and reduced public support. Our programme includes 60 billion pounds for a bigger, better, safer railway - the biggest investment in railways for generations. A good deal all round. Our programme includes 59 billion pounds for modernising local transport in every region throughout the country. Building on the 400 million of private investment that has already taken place.
Light rail can transform our cities.
Manchester and other cities have already shown what a difference it can make. So we are going to provide the resources for up to 25 new projects in our major cities. And for the first time we are recognising the problems of people who live in poorly-served, deprived urban areas, cut off from jobs and services. They can look to help from a new Urban Bus Challenge Fund to provide new links to their communities. Our successful Rural Transport Fund, which has already secured 2000 extra services, will rise from 60 million to 95 million pounds a year with a Rural Transport Partnership established in every county.