Debates between Robin Walker and John Lamont during the 2019 Parliament

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Robin Walker and John Lamont
Wednesday 2nd December 2020

(3 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Robin Walker Portrait The Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office (Mr Robin Walker)
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The Secretary of State and I have regular conversations with ministerial colleagues regarding transport connections, which are particularly important for Northern Ireland, given its unique geography. The recently announced independent Union connectivity review will consider how connectivity across the UK can support economic growth. Both the Secretary of State and I have met Sir Peter Hendy and look forward to hearing his recommendations in the summer.

John Lamont Portrait John Lamont
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Does the Minister agree that good transport links between all parts of the United Kingdom are vital, and it is therefore extremely disappointing that the Scottish Government are refusing to engage with the Union connectivity review, thereby depriving my constituents of good transport links in all parts of Scotland and better links with other parts of the United Kingdom?

Robin Walker Portrait Mr Walker
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I wholeheartedly agree with my hon. Friend. Every part of the United Kingdom can benefit from investment in our shared infrastructure and connectivity. Unwillingness to engage with the review risks Scotland missing out, and I would certainly urge the Scottish Government to rethink. They should follow the example of the Minister for Infrastructure in the Northern Ireland Executive, who has been engaging constructively with the review.