New investigation shows Government misled local people over Lakes Line electrification – MP

Commenting on the revelations from the National Audit Office's investigation into the Department for Transport's decision to cancel the electrification of the Lakes Line, local MP Tim Farron said:

"Today's revelations completely dispel the Government's made up excuses that electrification was cancelled to protect the Lake District's environment or because it wouldn't deliver any benefits to passengers.

"The simple truth is they decided to pull the plug because they weren't prepared to cough up the cash for our area and in doing so, misled and betrayed local people.

"Electrification was frankly a no brainer and had the backing of everyone, from commuters to local businesses to the National Park.

"The Government needs to stop taking us for granted and rethink their decision."