1. We need to do more to reduce emissions from aviation. The Moderates are therefore positive to investigate the introduction of a reduction obligation for aviation in order to increase the use of biofuels. We also want to renegotiate the conventions that today prohibit states from taxing aviation fuel. Night trains can in many cases constitute an excellent alternative to air travel within the EU.
2. The moderates are behind the principle that the polluter should pay. We need to do more to increase the pace to change our transport sector so that it becomes sustainable in the long term. At the same time, we must be realistic, when it comes to long-distance travel, there is currently no alternative to air travel.
3. In order for more people to choose the train, it is crucial that the work on achieving good cross-border train connections continues. We have come a bit on the way but there remains a lot concerning, among other things, harmonization of signaling systems and ticket sales.
4. The Moderates are in favor of proposals that facilitate cross-border train travel in Europe. For many trips by air, the train can be a good alternative and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
5. This clearly illustrates the importance of action at EU level. For a well-functioning railroad, cooperation and coordination with other countries is needed. Market opening for passenger traffic within the fourth railway package contributes, through increased competition, to cater for travelers’ and society’s demands for an attractive, efficient and long-term, sustainable range of good quality transport services. The Moderates have long been pushing for a full implementation of the fourth railway package.
6. It is not the task of politics to define what circumstances “exceptional circumstances” could be, but it is reasonable that the possibility of invoking it should be available. The issue of EU passenger rights is important but we believe that in many parts it goes too far. Among other things, we are critical of the requirement for ticket sales on board, which will lead to increased additional costs without corresponding value for the passengers.
7. We believe that technological development and international cooperation are directly decisive for us to succeed in reducing emissions from aviation. We want to investigate the introduction of a reduction obligation for the aircraft in order to increase the use of biofuels. We also want to renegotiate the conventions that today prohibit states from taxing aviation fuel.
7.1 As mentioned above, the Moderates want to renegotiate the Chicago Convention to allow for reasonable taxation of aviation fuel.
7.2 No. Moderates do not believe in prohibitions. It is the emissions we must fight, not the travel itself. For example, in order for more people to choose the train, the Moderates are investing in expanding the railway and maintaining the systems we already have so that everyone can trust that the trains come and go on time.