Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help improve the reliability of Wi-Fi on long-distance rail services.

The Department for Transport has secured funding to support the introduction of low earth orbit satellite connectivity on mainline trains, which is expected to deliver a significant improvement in the reliability and performance of onboard Wi‑Fi for passengers across the rail network.

Subject to final Treasury approval, the Department is working closely with Network Rail to commence procurement and design activity later this year. This work aligns with Network Rail’s Project Reach programme, delivered in partnership with Neos Networks and Freshwave, which will support the provision of more consistent connectivity and improved digital services for passengers travelling across the network.