Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps he is taking to reduce the impact of the red weather warning for extreme heat on our rail infrastructure.

Extreme heat can cause disruption on the railway due to issues such as overhead powerlines sagging in the heat, the increased likelihood of lineside fires, and rail buckling (when rails expand and curve).

The Department continues to support the rail industry as they work to ensure mitigations, such as emergency speed restrictions, are implemented to protect infrastructure and ensure both passenger and staff welfare.