The UK and Germany have agreed a plan to create a new, direct rail link between London and Berlin as part of a wide-ranging treaty. The Kensington Treaty also includes opening e-gates for frequent travellers between the two countries next month, as well as agreeing school exchange visits.

Direct trains have been running across the channel from London to Europe since the Eurostar service was founded in 1994. The trains, which run through the Channel Tunnel from London’s St Pancras station, go directly to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.