Direct trains between the UK and Switzerland are a step closer after the two countries agreed to work together to make it happen.
The journey time between London and Geneva could be cut to about five hours, without the need to change trains in Paris. At present the journey takes about seven and a half hours.
Heidi Alexander, the transport secretary, held talks with Albert Rösti, her Swiss counterpart, at St Pancras station on Thursday.
They signed a memorandum of understanding, agreeing a joint effort to establish the route including border controls at either end and meeting Channel Tunnel safety rules.
Heidi Alexander and Albert Rösti said a direct railway link would benefit both countries
LEOPARD GECKO
Alexander said direct railway services to Switzerland would offer “an incredible passenger experience” but acknowledged there was “a lot of detail to work through”.