Transport

Why > In Q1 2024, the complaint rate was 21 per 100,000 journeys, a 0.4% rise from the same quarter last year (Office of Rail and Road). For too long, train companies have proven to not provide suitable information for passengers. A new tough watchdog, will help protect and support passengers. What Success Means > A more comprehensive safe rail network, which has higher standards than private train companies.

Why > Labour’s commitment to reforming the railways and bringing them into public ownership follows models like France’s SNCF, where nationalized rail services are more integrated and efficient. This approach aims to address the UK’s fragmented rail system and improve service standards. Passengers suffer with overcrowding, delays and cancellations while paying up to 5 times more than our European neighbours as a percentage of wages (We Own It). What Success Means > Success would mean more reliable, affordable, and integrated rail services, improved passenger satisfaction, and reduced taxpayer subsidies for poorly performing private operators. It would also support economic growth by improving connectivity.

Why > It gives greater public control over how funding is used to support the local transport network (Centre For Cities). Labour’s plan to empower mayors to create unified transport systems reflects the success of models like Transport for London, which offers integrated, affordable, and reliable public transportation. This approach would allow local leaders to address specific regional needs. What Success Means > Success would mean seamless, affordable transport options, reduced congestion and pollution, and enhanced quality of life. It would also foster economic growth by improving mobility for workers and businesses.

Why > “In large European cities, almost seven in ten people can reach their city centre in less than 30 minutes, compared to just four in ten in UK cities outside London” (Centre For Cities). Mand city representatives will know which journeys are best for the public who live in their cities. Without Mayors having the devolved powers to act on this, there will not be as an efficient system for city residence. What Success Means > to see cities having smoother transport systems which are less crowded as mayors take action to allow for smoother journeys.

Why > Accelerating the rollout of EV charge points is essential for supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles and meeting climate targets. The UK currently has about 45,000 public EV charge points, but experts estimate that at least 300,000 will be needed by 2030 to meet demand. Countries like Norway, which leads the world in EV adoption, have invested heavily in public charging infrastructure, ensuring that EV users have widespread and easy access to charging facilities. What Success Means > Increased EV Adoption and Reduced Emissions > A more extensive network of charging points would encourage more people to switch to electric vehicles, supporting the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. It would also reduce dependency on fossil fuels and improve air quality. Boosted Green Economy and Job Creation > Investing in EV infrastructure would stimulate the green economy, creating jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of charge points, as well as supporting the wider EV supply chain.

Why > Supporting the second-hand EV market by standardizing information on battery condition would address concerns about battery life and performance, which are key factors for consumers when purchasing used EVs. Clear, standardized information would help build consumer confidence and ensure the long-term sustainability of the EV market. In countries like the United States, standardized battery health certifications are increasingly becoming part of used EV sales to provide transparency and trust. What Success Means > Increased Consumer Confidence and Market Growth > Standardizing battery condition information would make it easier for consumers to buy second-hand EVs, expanding the market and making EVs more accessible to lower-income households. Promotion of Sustainable Practices and Circular Economy > Supporting the second-hand EV market would extend the life cycle of electric vehicles, reduce waste, and promote sustainable consumption practices, contributing to a circular economy in the automotive sector.

Why > Labour’s policy to restore the 2030 phase-out date for new ICE vehicles provides certainty to manufacturers and consumers, supporting the shift towards zero-emission vehicles. The previous commitment to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 was seen as a bold step towards reducing carbon emissions, but recent delays have created uncertainty. Countries like the Netherlands and Germany have set similar targets, creating a clear roadmap for the automotive industry to transition to greener alternatives. What Success Means > Certainty for Manufacturers and Accelerated Innovation > Restoring the 2030 phase-out date would give automotive manufacturers a clear timeline for transitioning to electric vehicle production, driving innovation and investment in EV technology. Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Improved Air Quality > Enforcing a 2030 ban on new ICE vehicles would significantly cut emissions from road transport, contributing to the UK’s climate goals and improving public health by reducing air pollution.

Why > Labour plans to fix an additional one million potholes across England each year of the next parliament, funded by deferring the A27 bypass project. Potholes are a significant issue for road safety and vehicle maintenance, costing drivers an estimated £1.7 billion annually in damages. Countries like Germany have maintained high standards for road quality by prioritizing maintenance and repair over new road construction, leading to safer and more efficient transportation networks. What Success Means > Enhanced Road Safety and Reduced Vehicle Damage > Fixing potholes would improve road safety, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, and lower accident rates. It would also improve the overall driving experience, reducing congestion and delays caused by damaged roads. More Efficient Use of Public Funds > By deferring large-scale road projects like the A27 bypass and focusing on maintaining existing infrastructure, Labour’s policy would ensure that public funds are used more effectively, addressing urgent issues and delivering immediate benefits to road users, before trying to make new roads.