That this House congratulates the local authorities in the North East of England for their decision to promote Maglev as the preferred future inter-regional rapid transport mode; recognises that current thinking on high speed rail links is based on old technology that will be as outdated as steam trains by the end of the 21st century; and welcomes the recognition by North East councils that the region needs modern transport links that will close the North-South divide and stimulate the region's economy.