UK HSRThere is a seperate thread on this topic, but I think it better to condense it into one thread so as to not crowd out other important global transport developments.
These are extracts taken from a brief preliminary report undertaken by Network Rail into the possibility of a HSR network which is pretty much guaranteed to happen as it has the support of the three main political parties.
More specific details will emerge in December when a comprehensive report will be released.
A brief explanation on who Network Rail are: They are a company wholly owned by the government that own, operate and maintain the rail infrastructure (excluding the London Underground) on which train companies operate passenger and freight train services. Network Rail manage the largest termini and stations in the UK, but smaller commuter stations and rolling stock are managed by the train operating companies. They make money from essentially giving rights to allow companies to run trains on their track, and profits go straight back into improving the network.