A direct and sustainable rail link connecting the UK to Switzerland could soon become reality after the Transport Secretary announced that a deal has been signed with the Swiss Federal government to commence discussions for its development.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Swiss Federal Councillor Albert Rösti signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today (9 May 2025) at London St Pancras Station.

Officials indicated that this agreement could pave the way for future commercial services, boost tourism to the UK, support jobs and businesses, and strengthen cross-border trade.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "This is an exciting and important milestone in our efforts to strengthen international rail connections and promote greener travel to Europe."

"A direct rail link between the UK and Switzerland has the potential to boost tourism, grow our economy and bring people closer together – all while offering a greener option for passengers."

Federal Councillor Albert Rösti described the deal as an "ambitious goal" and added: "With today's memorandum of understanding, we are establishing the basis to jointly examine concrete next steps. Such a connection would send a strong signal for international public transport."

To make this link a reality, the government acknowledged the need to address several barriers, including establishing border controls and meeting Channel Tunnel safety regulations.

New security arrangements and facilitation of discussions with operators will also need to be established, officials noted.

The government's next steps include forming a joint working group that will bring together government and industry experts from both countries to examine how best to overcome the commercial and technical barriers to launching this direct service.

The first meeting will be held in the coming months to develop a clear plan and address operational, regulatory, policy and commercial requirements.

Both London St Pancras Highspeed and Eurostar have welcomed the agreement to create a sustainable international rail border arrangement between the two countries and to expand green connections.