HS1, the concessionaire of the high-speed rail (HSR) line of the same name which runs from the Channel Tunnel to London, has published a nine-point manifesto calling for policy interventions it believes the next government must make so that the UK's railway network is fit for the future. The manifesto launched on 10th October 2023 includes funding for sustainability schemes, improving connectivity between different modes of transport and encouraging rail use through improved ticketing systems. In addition, HS1 calls for smooth travel between the UK and continental Europe and support for new international corridors and operators. A reintroduction of the VAT retail export scheme to promote international tourism in the UK is also called for. Finally, the HS1 line should serve as a testing ground for regulatory innovation.
