The central transport policy issue is the expansion of the rail network. Not only because it has to cope with ever more passengers and an increasing volume of freight, but also in view of the environmental problems caused by road transport. Our European neighbours have recognised the signs of the time and are investing considerably more money in their railway networks than Germany. The Pro-Rail Alliance, in cooperation with all the organisations and companies in the railway sector, has calculated the fiscal requirements: the federal government has to invest 5 billion Euros annually to make the rail network fit for the future.