BOLTON’S Tory MP says he has received assurances from his government that it remains committed to improving rail services in the north.

An announcement that the government was backing a multibillion-pound Crossrail 2 scheme for London sparked anger from Northern leaders, including Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling had earlier suggested that the planned electrification of the rail line between Manchester and Leeds could be ‘downgraded’ and that Piccadilly station may not be extended.

However, Bolton West MP Chris Green says the government will soon clarify its plans.

He said: “If this story is true, then I am furious about it. But I have had a conversation with Chris Grayling, who has given me the assurances I need and I am looking forward to clarification coming out to show that the Conservative Party is committed to improving the rail system in the North of England.”

The electrification of the Manchester-Preston line, which runs through Bolton, is not thought to be affected by the rumoured downgrade.

Sir David Crausby, Bolton North East MP, said that northern rail lines were ‘crying out for investment’.

He said: "Our local rail services are crying out for investment, we need more capacity and more frequent trains, we need better connections across the North.

"The economy would benefit tremendously from smart investment in transport. Now, days after cancelling rail electrification plans across the country, the Government commits to Crossrail 2 in London.

"So London gets £15bn for Crossrail, £30bn for Crossrail 2. Where's the £45bn to improve rail services in the North?"