The UK and Germany have established a taskforce to develop direct train services within the next decade, aiming to improve rail connectivity and offer a greener alternative to flying, with plans for a route linking London and Berlin.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized that this agreement could transform travel between the UK and Germany, making access to iconic destinations easier and providing a faster, environmentally friendly option.

The bilateral treaty signed by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during Merz's official visit to the UK marks a significant step in strengthening UK-Germany relations.

Prime Minister Starmer described the treaty as a foundation for deeper collaboration and shared efforts to address common challenges between the two nations.

Following a UK-EU summit in May, it was confirmed that there are no legal barriers preventing UK citizens from using EU e-gates, which has already increased access in countries like Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and Portugal.

This change aims to ease travel for UK citizens, especially post-Brexit, when UK travelers faced long queues at EU airports due to the requirement of using manned passport desks.

EU Relations Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds highlighted that the new arrangements will benefit UK travelers and businesses by simplifying airport procedures and supporting the £30 billion services trade with the EU.

Germany will allow certain UK passport holders to use e-gates at airports by the end of August 2025, with full access for all UK nationals expected once Germany updates its systems for the EU's Entry/Exit System.

Eurostar plans to launch direct train services connecting London with Germany and Switzerland by the early 2030s, with journey times of around five hours to Frankfurt and Geneva.