To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 14 May 2009, Official Report, column 881W, on a London-Scotland high-speed rail link, what topics were discussed during the meeting on 24 April 2009; and whether any decisions on funding methodology for high-speed rail links were made at that meeting. (276928)

There was a general discussion about the potential benefits of high-speed rail, including environmental considerations; the possibility of modal shift; economic priorities; and the consideration of the Scottish Government’s views as work is taken forward.

It was noted there is still a great deal of work to be done in developing a business case and identifying funding solutions, and the Scottish Executive was encouraged to engage with “High Speed Two” as this work commences.