asked Her Majesty's Government:

What recent actions they have taken to support community railways. [HL7431]

The Government pay for community rail services through the franchising system and provide core funding for the Association of Community Rail Partnerships. They also sponsor specific events such as a workshop for community rail officers in November and, within the Department for Transport, have a team of three working full time to implement the community rail development strategy. Twelve lines and services have been designated under the strategy, and three more are currently the subject of local consultation.