Govia Thameslink/Rail Electrification

Kate Green Excerpts
Tuesday 3rd July 2018

(5 years, 9 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Johnson of Marylebone Portrait Joseph Johnson
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Cost overruns on that project have been a feature over the course of its life. We are looking carefully into the issues that the hon. Gentleman has raised, and we will follow that up with him directly.

Kate Green Portrait Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab)
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Does the Minister understand the depth of anger and dismay in the north at the shadow that has now been cast over the full electrification of the trans-Pennine route? What assessment is he making of the impact on our economy and on future inward investment?

Lord Johnson of Marylebone Portrait Joseph Johnson
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The Government are making a massive investment in transport in the north of England, but Labour Members seem to be intent on downplaying its scale. It is worth reminding the House that £13 billion is being invested in northern transport in the years to 2020, and £2.9 billion is being invested in the trans-Pennine route upgrade alone. It is entirely right for the Government to seek the maximum value for both passengers and taxpayers when it comes to how that money is spent.