TRAMS AND LIGHT RAIL SCHEMES

Early day motion 1148, tabled 29 November 2005 by Tom Brake (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 72 members.

That this House recognises the numerous successful tram and light rail schemes operating up and down the country; further recognises that trams represent a green, safe, reliable mode of public transport accessible to all; believes light rail schemes deliver important environmental benefits, including reducing traffic congestion and pollution through using less fuel per passenger journey than buses or taxis and not emitting fumes; notes the regeneration benefits that trams offer to deprived communities by enabling access to training and jobs; further notes that some communities have been under-represented when decisions are taken in respect of new tram schemes or the extension of existing tram lines; believes that the economic costs of different transport modes must be fairly assessed; and calls on the Government to review its approach to light rail to ensure that all the economic and environmental benefits of light rail are accorded due weighting when local transport decisions are taken.

Signatures by party: Conservative 31, Liberal Democrat 20, Labour 14, DUP 2, Plaid Cymru 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Respect 1.