Shared Rural Network

Kevin Hollinrake Excerpts

Monday 28th October 2019 Commons Chamber

[Nicky Morgan]

My understanding is that the answer to that question is yes, but I will confirm that and let the hon. Gentleman have the full details.

[Kevin Hollinrake (Thirsk and Malton) (Con)]

I welcome the Secretary of State’s announcement and decisive action on this matter. Coverage in rural areas is very dependent on the roll-out of the emergency services network, which is behind schedule and over budget. I understand that it is the preserve of the Home Office, not her Department, but will she use her best endeavours to ensure that this project is brought back on track?

[Nicky Morgan]

I thank my hon. Friend very much indeed for his comments, and pay tribute to him for campaigning on this issue and encouraging other Members to work together to ensure that my Department was rightly put under some pressure to make sure that we delivered on it. He will be interested to know that since I have taken over the Department we have been working very closely with the Home Office and got the agreement about the emergency services network, but I accept his challenge, and the conversations with the Home Office will of course continue.