Oral Answers to Questions

Luke Graham Excerpts
Thursday 19th October 2017

(6 years, 5 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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John Hayes Portrait Mr Hayes
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Again, I simply say, let us look at the facts. We are investing in rail in the north. After all, this Government are investing in Transport for the North to do exactly what he describes. It is true that we need to look at a range of technologies to achieve what we want, but the answer to the hon. Gentleman’s question is: new trains, faster routes, more rail, more road investment—what is there not to like about that?

Luke Graham Portrait Luke Graham (Ochil and South Perthshire) (Con)
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17. What plans he has to develop transport infrastructure in Scotland.

John Hayes Portrait The Minister for Transport Legislation and Maritime (Mr John Hayes)
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I am up again—and up for it, by the way.

As my hon. Friend knows, transport powers are devolved in Scotland. Nevertheless, investments are being made by the UK Government in rail and road on both sides of the border help to bind our kingdom together—united forever.

Luke Graham Portrait Luke Graham
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I thank my right hon. Friend, but what specific plans does he have to improve north-south rail connections other than High Speed 2, including the east coast main line, to ensure we truly are a connected kingdom?

John Hayes Portrait Mr Hayes
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For such a specific question, a specific answer is required. Investments in the east coast and west coast franchises will bring great benefits to the people of Scotland. An additional £2.7 billion has been given to the intercity express programme, providing 500 new carriages, increasing the number of seats by 20% and reducing journey times between many of the great cities of our united kingdom.