Reports that the UK Government has floated a “single market for goods” with the EU raise a simple question: why should freight move more freely between Britain and Europe, while passengers, rail operators and transport services are left behind?

The EU Single Market is not a pick-and-mix counter. One of its four freedoms is the free movement of services. Transport is not a side issue. It is the physical link between people, businesses and regions.

If the UK is serious about rebuilding ties with the EU, it should also look again at its rail policy. The Railways Bill and Great British Railways plans move towards centralisation, direct awards and weaker competition — the opposite of the Single European Railway Area.

John Thomas, Policy Director of ALLRAIL, says:

“Closer UK–EU cooperation is welcome. But cherry-picking goods while sidelining services makes little sense. Rail is one of the most practical links between Britain and the EU. A serious reset should mean open markets, fair access, connectivity and growth.

“Instead, the UK risks creating Great British Railways as a taxpayer-funded monopoly just when Europe is trying to make rail more open and customer-focused. That is not alignment. It is selective convenience.”