Rail Supply Group launches vision statement

A ‘strategic vision’ has been launched by the rail industry and government, working in partnership, to meet the demands of the railway of the future.

The Rail Supply Group, co-chaired by Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin, Business Secretary Vince Cable and Alstom UK President Terence Watson, has outlined how the RSG will develop an industrial strategy for the rail supply chain, with a “clear implementation plan”.

The RSG is taking inspiration from the success of the UK automotive industry over the past 20 years. In partnership with the supply chain, it wants to create more jobs and boost UK exports.

Cable said Britain’s rail supply chain was “renowned for excellence in an array of disciplines, from train design to signal solutions”, adding: “We are committed to keeping the industry on track as a global leader.”

McLoughlin said the RSG has a vital role to play in supporting these companies, and that it was a “massive opportunity for British rail suppliers to capitalise on this investment and win new business at home and abroad”.

The British rail industry contributes £9.3 billion a year to the UK economy and employs more than 200,000 people.

• For more on this story, see RAIL 767, published on February 4.