Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what information her Department has on the number of times the Ro-Ro cargo ferry Laureline called in Purfleet port in the 2023-24 financial year.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

According to the Department's vessel arrival statistics, in the calendar year 2023, the merchant vessel Laureline (9823352) did not call at Purfleet port. The Department cannot disclose data pertaining to 2024 as these data are unpublished and will only be available upon publication of the Department’s annual Port Freight statistics 2024, which is expected to be in summer 2025.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the consultation entitled Creating a UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), published on 22 October 2024, what steps she plans to take to allow communities to provide comments to the proposed UKADS on new flight path systems.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

As a public consultation, any interested party is welcome to provide feedback on our proposals to set up a UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS).

The CAA’s Airspace Change Process (CAP1616) sets out how airspace change proposals should be developed and delivered. It includes requirements for the airspace change sponsor to consult those affected by airspace change at different stages of the process and consider their views. The UKADS consultation envisages that once up and running, the UKADS and partner airports would continue to engage and consult with communities on airspace change proposals through a defined process.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the consultation entitled Creating a UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), published on 22 October 2024, whether she has made an assessment of the potential impact of her proposal to establish the UKADS on the delivery timeline of the airspace modernisation programme.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government’s plans for the UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS) have been developed to strengthen delivery in implementing the airspace modernisation programme. They aim to improve delivery confidence of the Future Airspace Integration Strategy (FASI) programme, initially focusing on the complex London area. The plans anticipate that the UKADS will take on existing airspace changes, so it is important that existing airspace sponsors continue to develop their proposals.

The UKADS will act as a single guiding mind to design and implement holistic airspace design in a coordinated and efficient manner. This will create a system that’s fit for the future by delivering quicker routes, easing delays, and reducing harmful emissions.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to her Department's consultation entitled, Creating a UK Airspace Design Service, published on 22 October 2024, whether the service will be staffed from existing Departmental staff.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The consultation published on 22 October outlines our proposals to set up a UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), initially undertaken by NATS (En Route) plc (NERL) through a change to its air traffic services licence. NERL is independent and not resourced from existing Departmental staff.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department has had recent discussions with car manufacturers on the potential impact of digitally connected cars on the safety of domestic abuse survivors.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Responsibility for domestic abuse policy rests with the Home Office. The Government has set out an ambition to halve violence against women and girls within a decade. The Department for Transport has not carried out discussions with car manufacturers on this issue.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to increase the speed of rail electrification.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government expects electrification to play an important role in our programme to achieve our Net Zero 2050 target and improve the passenger experience.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to paragraph 35 of the minutes of the Office of Rail and Roads Board meeting of 25 June 2024, when National Highways plans to publish the Delivery Plan Update for 2024/25.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

National Highways intend the publish the Delivery Plan Update for 2024/25 later this year.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of bringing forward legislative proposals to allow independent lifeboat services to use (a) blue lights and (b) sirens on public highways.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Ministers are giving consideration to this matter. An update will be provided in due course.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, on what date her Department provided proposals to Highways England for the Road Investment Strategy 2.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport published the Draft second Road Investment Strategy on 29 October 2018, setting out the Governments objectives and funding available for RIS2, to allow National Highways (then Highways England) to prepare its Draft Strategic Business Plan. The final Road Investment Strategy 2 was published on 11 March 2020, on which the company based its detailed Delivery Plan.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps is the Minister taking to reduce the impact from cyclists using (a) strobe and (b) flashing lights on (i) motorists and (ii) other road users.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Standards for the fitment and use of bicycle lights are set out in the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 as amended.

Front and rear flashing lights are only permitted on bicycles provided they do not cause undue dazzle or discomfort to other road users, have a constant flashing frequency of 1 to 4 hertz and, if they are the only lights fitted, an intensity of not less than four candelas.

Enforcement of road traffic law is generally an operational matter for individual police forces and their officers can issue verbal warnings or fixed penalty notices, or report riders for formal prosecution.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will take steps to support local bus services in Great Yarmouth Constituency.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Improving local bus services is a key part of this government’s growth mission, and the government has set out plans to deliver better bus services, grow passenger numbers and drive opportunity to under-served regions.

As announced in the King’s Speech on 17 July 2024, the government will introduce a Buses Bill later this session. This will put the power over local bus services back in the hands of local leaders right across England, including in Great Yarmouth, to ensure networks meet the needs of the communities who rely on them. The Bill will seek to increase the powers available to local leaders to choose the model that works best in their area, whether that be franchising, high-quality partnerships with private operators or local authority ownership.

In addition, the government has confirmed an additional £925 million for the 2025 to 2026 financial year to support and improve bus services in England outside London, bringing total bus investment at the Budget to over £1 billion. Local authorities can use the £925 million to introduce new bus routes, make services more frequent and protect crucial bus routes for local communities.

The government will continue working closely with local transport authorities including Norfolk County Council, and others, to deliver better bus and public transport services throughout England.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to support local bus services in Boston and Skegness.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Improving local bus services is a key part of this government’s growth mission, and the government has set out plans to deliver better bus services, grow passenger numbers and drive opportunity to under-served regions.

As announced in the King’s Speech on 17 July 2024, the government will introduce a Buses Bill later this session. This will put the power over local bus services back in the hands of local leaders right across England, including in Boston and Skegness, to ensure networks meet the needs of the communities who rely on them. The Bill will seek to increase the powers available to local leaders to choose the model that works best in their area, whether that be franchising, high-quality partnerships with private operators or local authority ownership.

In addition, the government has confirmed an additional £925 million for the 2025 to 2026 financial year to support and improve bus services in England outside London, bringing total bus investment at the Budget to over £1 billion. Local authorities can use the £925 million to introduce new bus routes, make services more frequent and protect crucial bus routes for local communities.

The government will continue working closely with local transport authorities including Lincolnshire County Council, and others, to deliver better bus and public transport services throughout England.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps Shadow Great British Railways is taking to increase the volume of goods moved by rail.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Secretary of State has tasked Shadow Great British Railways leaders with producing a delivery plan for both passengers and freight users. Priorities will be communicated in due course.

In the future, Great British Railways will have a statutory duty to promote the use of rail freight and an overall growth target, as confirmed by the Secretary of State when she announced the establishment of Shadow Great British Railways.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, which consular representatives from his Department attended the Innotrans rail trade convention in Berlin between Tuesday 24 and Friday 27 September 2024.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The official delegation from my department which attended InnoTrans in Berlin between 24 and 26 September was led by the Director for Rail International, Integration and Security.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the value for money of Network Rail's annual spending with Alexander Mann Solutions.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Network Rail contracts with Alexander Mann Solutions through the Crown Commercial Services Framework, which is subject to value for money due diligence.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 14 October 2024 to Question 7092 on Heathrow Airport: Railways, when her Department intends to publish a plan for future rail investment.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

We have announced our intention to conduct a thorough review of the previous government's transport plans to ensure that our transport infrastructure portfolio drives economic growth and delivers value for money for taxpayers. Decisions about individual projects will be informed by the review process and confirmed in due course.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to help support improvements to (a) local transport links and (b) networks across (i) Yorkshire and (ii) Northern Lincolnshire.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is committed to improving local transport across the Yorkshire and Humber. The Chancellor announced in the Autumn Statement on 30 October a range of funding to support local transport, including funding that will provide for development of West Yorkshire Mass Transit and renewal of the Supertram in Sheffield. This includes an uplift to national City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) funding in 2025-26 by £200m, helping to improve the local transport in our largest city regions and drive growth and productivity across the country. This is in addition to the £570m and £830m already allocated to South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire for CRSTS1.

Additionally, the Chancellor announced over £650m of funding for local transport beyond City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements to ensure that transport connections improve in our towns, villages and rural areas as well as in our major cities. This includes funding to progress transport-related Levelling Up Fund projects through to 2025/26 including schemes such as Connecting West Leeds which will provide multi-modal enhancements to capacity, efficiency, safety and accessibility for all users of the A6120 Leeds Outer Ring Road.

Furthermore, the government has committed to delivering better bus services, and in the Budget confirmed investment of over £1 billion in 2025/26 to support and improve bus services and keep fares affordable.

This investment sits alongside the measures we are already undertaking to reform the bus system, including through the introduction of the Buses Bill later in this Parliamentary session, as we seek to ensure local leaders have the powers they need to deliver the better, more reliable services that passengers deserve.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of raising of the bus fare cap in England on working families.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The government knows how important it is to provide affordable bus travel, particularly in rural communities and towns where there is heavy reliance on buses. Under the inherited plans of the previous administration, funding for the current cap on bus fares had been due to expire at the end of 2024 – with no plan in place to ensure passengers had access to affordable, reliable bus services.

That is why the Prime Minister confirmed on 28 October that the government will invest £151 million to introduce a £3 cap on single bus fares from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025. This cap on fares will ensure millions of people can continue to access affordable bus tickets, including potential savings of up to 80% on some routes, while ensuring good value for the taxpayer.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much funding her Department has provided for signalling improvements on the Cambrian line since 2014.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Since 2014 my Department has allocated £3.8 million of UK Government funding for signalling improvements on the Cambrian Line.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the report entitled £2 bus fare cap evaluation: interim report, published on 17 May 2023, whether her Department prepared a final report before 24 May 2024.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department has published two interim reports setting out emerging trends in key outcomes from the first two months of the national bus fare cap scheme. These reports are available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/evaluation-of-the-2-bus-fare-cap.

On Monday 28 October, the Prime Minister confirmed the government will introduce a new £3 cap on single bus fares from 1 January 2025 until the end of 2025. The £2 cap on single bus fares had been due to come to an end on 31 December 2024. This will be replaced by the £3 cap to help millions access opportunities, and promote bus use by passengers.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to lowering the legal alcohol limit for drivers as tested by a breathalyser.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

This Government takes road safety very seriously and reducing those killed and injured on our roads is a key priority. The Department is currently considering policy options in this area.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much funding her Department provided to Rail Partners in (a) 2021, (b) 2022 and (c) 2023.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department has not provided any funding directly to Rail Partners in 2021, 2022 or 2023.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will provide funding for the A12 widening scheme.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

On 30 July 2024, the Secretary of State announced that she was commissioning a review of the Department’s capital spend portfolio.

This review is ongoing and will support the development of our long-term strategy for transport, developing a modern and integrated network with people at its heart, ensuring that transport infrastructure can be delivered efficiently and on time.

The A12 Chelmsford to A120 widening scheme is being considered as part of the capital review alongside other future road projects.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will publish the most recent data her Department holds on the number of road accidents classified as accidental deaths in (a) England, (b) the North East, (c) Northumberland by ward and (d) Hexham constituency.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Data on road injury collisions are reported by police using the STATS19 system. The number of personal injury road collisions in each of the areas requested in 2023 are shown in the table below.

The number of collisions by ward is not routinely available. Mapping tools to view the distribution of individual collisions across Northumberland are available alongside the latest published statistical release on GOV.UK.

Data on which fatal collisions were classified as accidental does not fall under the remit of the Department for Transport and is recorded by coroners.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how many road accidents there were in (a) England, (b) the North East, (c) Northumberland by ward and (d) Hexham constituency in the latest period for which data is available.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Data on road injury collisions are reported by police using the STATS19 system. The number of personal injury road collisions in each of the areas requested in 2023 are shown in the table below.

The number of collisions by ward is not routinely available. Mapping tools to view the distribution of individual collisions across Northumberland are available alongside the latest published statistical release on GOV.UK.

Data on which fatal collisions were classified as accidental does not fall under the remit of the Department for Transport and is recorded by coroners.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what funding she has allocated to Essex County Council for highways in each of the next five years.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

This Government takes the condition of local roads very seriously and is committed to maintaining and renewing the local road network. Within the Budget on 30 October, the Chancellor announced that for the 2025/26 financial year there would be a £500 million increase for local highways maintenance funding in England, an increase of nearly 50% compared to the current financial year. Funding allocations for specific local highway authorities for 2025/26, including Essex County Council, will be confirmed in due course.

Funding allocations for individual local highway authorities beyond 2025/26 will be a matter for the forthcoming Spending Review.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to improve access to artificial intelligence training.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

This Government is committed to delivering an efficient and effective future transport sector. To do that we need to ensure that the sector and the public servants which support it are equipped to use, regulate, guide and assure AI systems effectively.

My department is working with experts in this sector to develop internal training which will be broadly available to staff members, senior leaders and even ministers to help the whole department, its arms-length bodies and agencies improve their understanding of what AI can offer and how to go about supporting its development.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 18 October 2024 to Question 8554 on Buses and Large Goods Vehicles: Carbon Emissions, if her Department will make an assessment of the potential merits of extending the zero emission vehicle mandate to include (a) trucks, (b) buses and c) other vehicles.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The ZEV Mandate sets a clear pathway for the decarbonisation of new cars and vans and is the largest carbon saving measure across government. The Department is committed to decarbonising other vehicle categories and is exploring options for implementation that meet the needs of each segment of the market.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of allowing English National Concessionary Travel Scheme bus passes to be used before 9.30 am.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age, currently sixty-six. Local authorities in England have the power to go beyond their statutory obligations under the ENCTS and offer additional discretionary concessions, such as extending the times at which concessionary passes can be used.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the oral contribution of the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport in response to the question from the hon. Member for Wokingham of 10 October 2024, Official Report, column 441, when further information in writing will be provided.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Given the complex issues, my officials have worked closely with Network Rail to ensure a clear and helpful response, which I understand has been sent to the Hon. member today.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with the Mayor of London on levels of noise pollution on the London Underground.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Secretary of State has not had discussions with the Mayor of London specifically on levels of noise pollution on the London Underground. Ministers and officials have regular conversations with Transport for London on a variety of issues. However, transport in London is devolved to the Mayor, and TfL is responsible for the operation of London’s transport network.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to regulate the dockless rental e-bike market.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

As you will appreciate, the new Government is still in its early stages, and my Department is carefully considering next steps and potential policy solutions for the dockless rental e-bike market.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they are considering introducing legislation granting (1) London boroughs, and (2) Transport for London, legal powers to regulate the use of rental e-bikes and e-scooters.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

As you will appreciate, the new Government is still in its early stages, and my Department is carefully considering next steps and potential policy solutions for micromobility, including rental e-bikes and e-scooters.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to legalise rental e-scooters following the trials ending in May 2026.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

As you will appreciate, the new Government is still in its early stages, and my Department is carefully considering next steps and potential policy solutions for micromobility, including rental e-bikes and e-scooters.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to legalise the use of private e-scooters in public spaces.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

As you will appreciate, the new Government is still in its early stages, and my Department is carefully considering next steps and potential policy solutions for micromobility, including rental e-bikes and e-scooters.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with (a) the Mayor of London and (b) other mayors on improving access to cycles for people on low incomes.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Ministers and officials meet regularly with Mayors and their representatives to discuss a wide range of transport issues, including enabling more people to walk, wheel and cycle.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will provide additional funding for the Mode Shift Revenue Support scheme.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Live grant awards for this financial year total £20.8m, which is in line with historic levels of funding for this scheme. Future budgets are being determined as part of the continuing Spending Review.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what progress she has made on the introduction of digital drivers licences.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

In September, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) introduced a digital representation of the photocard driving licence as the latest enhancement to its Driver and Vehicle Account.

The DVLA is in the process of introducing functionality which will enable customers to obtain a QR code to allow them to share information from their driving licence with third parties within the Driver and Vehicle Account in addition to the Share Driving Licence service.

Discussions continue on future developments in the area of digital driving licences.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will carry out an assessment of the impact of the regulatory changes to volumetric concrete mobile plants in 2018 on the construction industry.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department ran a call for evidence from October to December 2023 seeking views on three potential options on weight limits for VCMs. Any potential changes to the current policy position on VCM weight limits will need to consider the implications for road safety, infrastructure, the environment, and maintaining fair competition in the market. The Department is currently reviewing the outcomes and will publish its findings in due course.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, which organisation is responsible for (a) litter collection and (b) tree management along the A52 in Nottinghamshire.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Responsibility for litter collection on the A52 in Nottinghamshire lies with the local authorities in the area, in this case that is Broxtowe Borough Council, Nottingham City Council and Rushcliffe Borough Council.

National Highways is responsible for tree management on the A52 in Nottinghamshire, this includes cyclical inspections of trees within National Highways ownership and can include third party trees that are identified as being a significant and imminent hazard to the Strategic Road Network.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to ensure that Highways England fulfils its statutory functions for (a) litter collection and (b) tree management.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport regularly engages with National Highways to discuss its performance and management of the Strategic Road Network.

The Office for Road and Rail, as Highways Monitor, also plays an important role in monitoring on behalf of the Secretary of State, holding National Highways to account for its licence commitments to maintain, operate and improve motorways and major ‘A’ roads in England. Should the Office for Road and Rail deem that National Highways is not complying with its statutory functions or the requirements outlined in the Roads Investment Strategy, they may determine that enforcement action is appropriate.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department has made an assessment of the economic impact of seasonal flight reductions at Aberdeen International Airport; and whether he is taking steps to encourage year-round services.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Whilst the Government recognises the role that regional airports, including Aberdeen Airport, play in acting as a gateway to international opportunities, maintaining social and family ties and strengthening bonds between the four nations, the UK aviation market operates predominantly in the private sector. It is for AGS Airports Ltd as the owners of the airport to invest in infrastructure to attract passengers, and work with airlines to maintain and create new connections, including negotiating year-round services and fares.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department is taking steps to tackle changes in the (a) number of flight services and (b) level of fares at Aberdeen International Airport.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Whilst the Government recognises the role that regional airports, including Aberdeen Airport, play in acting as a gateway to international opportunities, maintaining social and family ties and strengthening bonds between the four nations, the UK aviation market operates predominantly in the private sector. It is for AGS Airports Ltd as the owners of the airport to invest in infrastructure to attract passengers, and work with airlines to maintain and create new connections, including negotiating year-round services and fares.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions she has had with (a) shipowners, (b) training providers and (c) trade unions on the provision of maritime apprenticeships.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The UK must continue to be at the leading edge of maritime skills and provide a world-class education to benefit both UK economic growth and support a maritime sector fit for the challenges and opportunities ahead. This is why DfT officials are engaging with the Department for Education on the establishment of Skills England. Ministers will be kept updated on this work as it progresses and will hold discussions with industry and Cabinet colleagues as appropriate.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the provision of maritime apprenticeships.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The UK must continue to be at the leading edge of maritime skills and provide a world-class education to benefit both UK economic growth and support a maritime sector fit for the challenges and opportunities ahead. This is why DfT officials are engaging with the Department for Education on the establishment of Skills England. Ministers will be kept updated on this work as it progresses and will hold discussions with industry and Cabinet colleagues as appropriate.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department is taking to monitor pricing practices by airline operators on routes where there is (a) limited and (b) no competition (i) generally and (ii) at (A) Aberdeen International Airport and (B) other airports serving (1) remote and (2) rural areas.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has statutory competition functions in relation to airline markets. The CMA and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) both have responsibilities for enforcing consumer protections relating to price transparency, contract terms and passenger rights, including those during flight disruption.

Additionally, Public Service Obligations (PSOs) support vital domestic routes that are at risk of being lost, particularly those connecting remote areas, guaranteeing a reliable and consistent service. The Department is actively engaging with regional airports, including Aberdeen Airport, to understand how Government can support and unlock opportunities for growth.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department is taking to protect consumers on routes where a single airline operates the only available service.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has statutory competition functions in relation to airline markets. The CMA and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) both have responsibilities for enforcing consumer protections relating to price transparency, contract terms and passenger rights, including those during flight disruption.

Additionally, Public Service Obligations (PSOs) support vital domestic routes that are at risk of being lost, particularly those connecting remote areas, guaranteeing a reliable and consistent service. The Department is actively engaging with regional airports, including Aberdeen Airport, to understand how Government can support and unlock opportunities for growth.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will publish a breakdown of funding for passengers with reduced mobility services at United Kingdom airports provided by her Department.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Under the UK law, the managing body of the airport is responsible for ensuring the provision of free assistance, for disabled or less mobile passengers. The UK aviation sector operates in a private market, therefore the sector is responsible for funding the provision of assistance.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, when the Maritime Accident Investigation Branch will publish its interim report in relation to its investigation on the fatal injury to a crew member on a Malta-registered RoRo cargo vessel while loading freight vehicles in Purfleet on 13 July 2024.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The accident on the Laureline happened on 13/07/2024. The Maritime Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) is required to make every effort to publish a full report as soon as possible and in any case within 12 months of the accident. If this is not possible then an interim report is issued at the 12 month point. MAIB does not generally issue interim reports outside of this timeframe.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the adequacy of traffic management and driver welfare measures in the event of queues relating to the introduction of the European Union's Entry/Exit system.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

Government continues to work closely with the Kent and Medway Resilience Forum to ensure that well-rehearsed traffic management plans for freight and passenger traffic are in place ahead of the introduction of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit system (EES).

Driver welfare is an important factor during any disruption. KMRF has responsibility for providing welfare to freight and non-freight traffic during a period of significant congestion or gridlock on the road network in Kent. KMRF holds an established Driver Welfare Plan, this is currently being reviewed ahead of EES implementation.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the annual cost to the rail network of providing rail replacement bus services between Three Bridges and Brighton.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

When engineering work takes place, it is the responsibility of the train operators to ensure the provision of rail replacement bus services, via their contracted suppliers.

My Department does not hold the information on these costs at a granular level.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the risk posed by the explosives on board the wreck of the SS Richard Montgomery; what plans they have to mitigate that risk; and to what extent they have been implemented.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

We manage the wreck of the SS Richard Montgomery to ensure public safety. Our approach includes an exclusion zone, 24/7 monitoring and regular condition surveys which are published on gov.uk.

There is no indication that the risk has increased but we continue to take expert advice on further mitigation. Our current focus is on reducing the height of the wreck’s three masts. Additional surveys to inform that work remain ongoing and will inform future management strategies.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government how their proposed Great British Railways organisation will differ from the Strategic Rail Authority that was abolished in 2006.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

The Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) did not integrate track and train, nor was it intended to.

Great British Railways will integrate track and train at a route and operating company level, thus reducing costs, increasing revenue and improving performance, thus serving passengers, freight and the taxpayer.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what his planned timescale is for (a) commencing and (b) completing upgrades to Ely and Haughley junctions.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

This government is committed to delivering economic growth, and projects such as the Ely Area Capacity Enhancement and upgrades to Haughley Junction have the potential to contribute to this. While the previous government made public statements of support for both projects, no funding was provided to allow either to progress.

The Chancellor has been clear about the state of the nation's finances and has launched a multi-year Spending Review. Decisions and timescales about individual projects will be informed by the review process and confirmed in due course.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill on 26 September (HL1120), whether the second strengthening stage of works on Hammersmith Bridge has started; and if not, when it will (1) start, and (2) be completed.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

The first, ‘Stabilisation’ stage of works is now expected to complete in Spring 2025 and will ensure that the Bridge can safely remain open to pedestrians, cyclists and river traffic on a permanent basis. The schedule for the ‘Strengthening’ works is under development by the Borough.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if her Department will make an estimate of the cost of closing roads during flooding in (a) Bedfordshire and (b) nationally in September.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department recognises the profound importance of our country’s road network in moving people, goods, and services around the country. The economic impact of closing roads will vary greatly depending on the roads in question and on the scale and severity of the flooding.

The Government does not routinely make a detailed estimate of the economic impact of particular road closures of this sort, either in Bedfordshire or nationally. These are matters for local highway authorities. Bedford Council and Central Bedfordshire Council, as the relevant local highway authorities for Bedfordshire, are responsible for the management of their respective local networks, including making operational network decisions in the event of severe weather events including flooding.

On a national basis, management of the highway network is the responsibility of over 150 highway authorities in England, who make operational decisions based on the scope and severity of severe weather affecting their area.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the condition of local roads.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government takes the condition of local roads very seriously and is committed to maintaining and renewing the local highway network. It publishes data annually on the condition of local roads which is available on gov.uk.

At Budget 2024, the Chancellor announced an extra £500 million for local highway maintenance for the 2025/26 financial year, an increase of nearly 50% compared to the current financial year - exceeding this Government’s manifesto commitment on repairing local roads. The Government will confirm 2025/26 funding allocations to English local highway authorities, including Gloucestershire County Council, in due course.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help reduce congestion on roads in (a) South Holland and the Deepings constituency and (b) Lincolnshire.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

This Government is committed to maintaining and renewing our road network so it can serve all road users and is safe. Traffic management of local roads is the responsibility of local traffic authorities who are best placed to understand local circumstances and needs.

Traffic authorities are subject to the statutory network management duty which requires them to manage their roads to secure the ‘expeditious movement’ of all traffic including pedestrians, with a view to reducing congestion, and they have a wide range of tools already available to them to enable this.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what progress she has made on supporting pothole repairs in South Holland and the Deepings constituency.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government takes the condition of local roads very seriously and is committed to maintaining and renewing the local highway network.

At Budget 2024, the Chancellor announced an extra £500 million for local highway maintenance for the 2025/26 financial year, an increase of nearly 50% compared to the current financial year - exceeding this Government’s manifesto commitment on repairing local roads.

The Government will confirm 2025/26 funding allocations to English local highway authorities, including Lincolnshire County Council, in due course.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how many road accidents there were in (a) South Holland and the Deepings constituency and (b) Lincolnshire in the most recent period for which data is available.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Data on road injury collisions are reported by police using the STATS19 system. The number of personal injury road collisions reported to police in each of the areas requested in 2023 are shown in the table below.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what percentage funding for rail infrastructure spending was allocated to Wales from 2011–12 to the most recent financial year for which figures are available, relative to (1) the total rail infrastructure spending, and (2) population.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

The UK Government is responsible for rail infrastructure across England and Wales. Decisions on investment in rail infrastructure are taken to ensure that the railways are funded to operate safely and efficiently and in line with the strategic goals of the government.

From 2011/12 until 2023/24, the population of Wales represented, on average, 5.26% of the total population in England and Wales. For the same period, an average of 5.03% of the total investment on the conventional rail network in England and Wales (i.e. excluding HS2) was spent on rail infrastructure in Wales.

The table below shows the percentage in each year:

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made the use of artificial intelligence cameras on roads.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport is aware of a number of suppliers who are now offering camera technology incorporating artificial intelligence to monitor and count traffic flows, both for better optimisation of junctions and the identification of ‘near-miss’ incidents. We are also aware of trials of wider artificial intelligence-based systems that use data collected from CCTV cameras to improve traffic flow and tackle congestion. A number of applications of this technology have been supported by intelligent traffic systems research grants from the Department, and others from local authorities’ own resources.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with East Midlands Railway regarding the restoration of regular train services between Lincoln and Newark Northgate following their withdrawal in the emergency timetable introduced in June 2021, resulting in gaps in services between Lincoln and London via Newark Northgate.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

Officials and East Midlands Railway are having conversations regarding the restoration of train services between Lincoln and Newark Northgate. Reinstatement is dependent upon the implementation of the East Coast Main Line timetable recast and successful conclusion of the relevant industry and departmental processes.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answers of 14 October 2024 to Questions 7031 and 7032 on Department for Transport: Official Cars, which senior officials in her Department have access to a government car; and whether those officials had that access before the general election.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government Car Service (GCS) offers vehicles to government departments as a shared resource. Each department independently determines the allocation of these vehicles.

The arrangements relating to the using of vehicles in the Government Car Service is set out in the Civil Service Management Code.

There has been no change in this policy since the general election.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, If she will bring forward legislative proposals to allow (a) police forces and (b) local councils to keep speeding fines from fixed point cameras to fund further safety measures on the highway network.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

There are no plans to bring forward legislative proposals to allow (a) police forces and (b) local councils to keep speeding fines from fixed point cameras to fund further safety measures on the highway network. Money from fines and penalty receipts, including for speeding, goes to the Treasury into the Consolidated Fund. It does not go to police forces or local authorities.

Money from the Consolidated Fund supports general expenditure on public services, and that would include services that motorists will benefit from, such as healthcare, policing, local government grants and transport.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the Better Buses Bill on connectivity in (a) rural and (b) underserved areas; and whether she plans to allow community transport schemes to participate in the enhanced bus services framework under the Bill.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

As announced in the King’s Speech on 17 July 2024, the government will introduce a Buses Bill later this parliamentary session, which will put decision-making into the hands of local leaders, including in rural areas right across England. The Bill will seek to give local areas the choice of pursuing bus franchising, high quality partnerships with the private sector, or local authority owned bus companies. This will allow local areas to determine how best to design their bus services so that they have control over routes and schedules to ensure they reflect the needs of the communities they serve, including considering how community transport services, alongside regular stopping services, can improve the experience for bus passengers. The Bus Services Act 2017 requires that community transport operators are consulted as part of the franchising process.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will provide funding for the A120 dual carriageway scheme.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The A120 Braintree to A12 dualling scheme is part of the pipeline of projects being considered for possible delivery as part of a future Road Investment Strategy beyond 2030.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will hold discussions with freight companies on the cost of transporting small vans across the Channel.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

As Minister for the Future of Roads I regularly meet with freight companies and trade associations, as do officials. Noting that lorries and vans crossing the Channel continue to be a key route for importing and exporting goods, I am keen to continue these discussions and welcome using a future engagement to consider small vans specifically.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what information his Department holds on the number of emergency calls made by irregular migrants crossing the channel on the basis of information that is later found to be false for each year since 2018.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

HM Coastguard does not hold information on the number of emergency calls made by irregular migrants crossing the channel on the basis of information that is later found to be false.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 14 October 2024 to Question 6029 on Railways: Passengers, if he will publish those forecasts.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department develops and maintains a number of possible rail demand forecasts. These are published when appropriate to evidence policy decisions.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to take steps to increase the amount of freight transported by rail.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government recognises that the economic and environmental potential of rail freight is significant and is committed to supporting its growth.

There will be a statutory duty on Great British Railways to promote the use of rail freight and there will be an overall rail freight growth target set by the Secretary of State, with clear and meaningful targets for rail freight growth within pre-defined periods.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how much (a) Northern Rail, (b) London North Eastern Railway, (c) TransPennine Express and (d) Southeastern pay annually in membership fees to (i) the Rail Delivery Group and (ii) Rail Partners.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

In 2024/25, the annual membership fee paid by each of Northern Trains Limited, London North-Eastern Railway Limited and South Eastern Trains Limited to the Rail Partners is £70,350 (exclusive of VAT). The annual membership fee paid by Transpennine Trains Limited to the Rail Partners is £57,750 (exclusive of VAT).

Rail Partners have two distinct functions – Policy and Advocacy, and Operator Services. The operators in question are currently members of the latter, which brings together industry leaders to discuss matters of operations and engineering. These memberships are historic and subject to review.

Operators do not pay a membership fee to the Rail Delivery Group but rather pay for services that are delivered on behalf of the operators, such as National Rail Enquiries.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the new cap on bus fares will include services that are solely for the transport of pupils to and from their place of education.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The new fare cap will be designed to be as equitable as possible in terms of its support for passengers across England. One of the key principles of the scheme will be to include ‘open’ services which allow any member of public to board. ‘Closed’ school services, defined as a service which would not allow a member of the general public to board, and school services which operate in term-time only will not be eligible for inclusion. This is in keeping with the approach of the previous fare cap scheme, which did not allow for the inclusion of closed school services.

Services from participating operators that serve schools, are open to members of the public and run all year round will be eligible for inclusion in the scheme.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she plans to take to (a) reduce emissions of harmful air pollutants from ships at ports in England and (b) incorporate the requirements of the environmental principles policy statement into maritime policy.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Greening transport, which includes tackling air pollution, is a key priority for the Secretary of State. The UK has consistently supported ambitious international efforts to limit air pollutant emissions from global shipping at the International Maritime Organization, including adopting the North Sea ECA for SOx emissions in 2005 which was expanded to include NOx emissions in 2021. Since April 2010, the UK has also applied equivalent SOx regulations to inland-water vessels and ships at berth in all ports.

The Department considers the environmental principles policy statement across all policy areas, in line with our legal duty.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what progress her Department has made on the potential opening of public direct travel between Swindon and Oxford using the current freight track.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

In September, Great Western Railway began a trial of direct services between Bristol, Bath, Swindon and Oxford. This trial is on Saturdays only with two direct services in each direction. It will run until May 2025, to understand levels of passenger demand for this service.

No decisions have yet been made on whether this service will continue beyond then and any expansion of the service would require additional rolling stock which is currently unidentified and unfunded.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the condition of Crewe Railway Station.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

There is a clear need for interventions at Crewe station including to ageing roof and canopies. The Department expects Avanti West Coast, which manages the day-to-day running of the station, to work closely on behalf of passengers with Network Rail, which is responsible for asset repairs.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to improve the service on the trainline between Grantham and Skegness.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

More modern Class 170 trains were introduced to this route in 2023, and additionally these trains will be completely refurbished over the next three years. Meanwhile, East Midlands Railway will continue to improve its timetable of strengthened trains and passenger handling in the summer peak, building on the success of the last two years.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will provide funding to improve step-free access at railway stations.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government is committed to improving the accessibility of the railway and recognises the social and economic benefits this brings to communities. Since its launch in 2006, the Access for All programme has delivered step free access at more than 250 stations across Great Britain.

Since April 2024, Access for All projects have entered into passenger service at nine stations, with a further 25 stations scheduled to enter into passenger service by April 2025.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Statement by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill on 22 July (HLWS15), when they will introduce a Bill to establish a revenue certainty mechanism for sustainable aviation fuel; what is their assessment of the impact that delays in the introduction of the Bill have had on investment in the United Kingdom; and what progress they have made towards introducing a sustainable aviation fuels mandate to start from by 1 January 2025.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

As announced in the King’s Speech, we will legislate in this session to introduce a revenue certainty mechanism for sustainable aviation fuel. We are on track to have legislation in place by the end of 2026. We will continue to work to support the development of a UK SAF sector.

The Government will be ready to implement the SAF Mandate on 1 January 2025. The SAF Mandate statutory instrument was approved by the House of Commons on 9 September with the House of Lords approving the regulation today (6 November).. The Department for Transport has shared draft guidance with obligated parties and aims to publish final versions of the guidance before the end of 2024. An IT system to administer the SAF Mandate is on track to be operational for the start of the SAF mandate scheme and is currently being tested with industry.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to lift the restriction on carrying liquids over 100ml in hand luggage on flights departing from UK airports; and if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of bringing forward legislative proposals to require all airports to introduce CT security scanners within the next six months.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The UK already has some of the most robust aviation security measures in the world, and the implementation of new cutting-edge technology enhances security and will boost the passenger experience. Restrictions on the carriage of liquids to up to 100ml need to remain in place for security reasons but the Department is moving at pace to enable larger volume of liquids to be carried when it is appropriate to do so. The department keeps aviation security regulatory requirements under constant review. All airports have been required by regulation to upgrade cabin baggage screening technology and processes to meet enhanced standards.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the economic impact on the south-east of England of planned strikes on London Underground services.

Answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill - Minister of State (Department for Transport)

Transport in London is devolved to the Mayor and TfL. Thanks to constructive dialogue between TfL and the unions the strikes planned by both RMT and ASLEF for early November have now been called off.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to help improve (a) access and (b) transport links to the Falkland Islands.

Answered by Mike Kane - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The DfT is working closely with the Falkland Islands Government, aviation stakeholders and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency to improve access and transport links.

Flights to and from the Falkland Islands are a devolved decision for the Falkland Islands Government. The announcement on 24 September 2024 between the Foreign Secretary and the Argentine Foreign Minister Mondino on South Atlantic cooperation included an intention to resume the weekly commercial flight between Sao Paulo (Brazil) and the Falkland Islands which stopped once a month in Cordoba, Argentina. We are working with the Falkland Islands Government and the Argentine Government to put into effect the resumption of the flight.

The UK has a large number of bilateral air services agreements (ASAs) that grant traffic rights for the operation of flights from countries around the world to the UK. The majority of these ASAs include the ability to fly to the UK Overseas Territories. The DfT works closely with the Falkland Islands Civil Aviation Department to ensure they are aware of the traffic rights available to airlines operating to the Falklands.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to help reduce waiting times for practical driving tests in (a) Greater London and (b) Essex.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency’s (DVSA) main priority is upholding road safety standards while it works hard to reduce car practical driving test waiting times.

Measures in place to reduce waiting times for customers at all driving test centres, include the recruitment of new driving examiners (DE), conducting tests outside regular hours, including at weekends and on public holidays, and buying back annual leave from DEs.

DVSA also continues to deploy DEs from areas with lower waiting times into those where waiting times are longer.

For recent recruitment campaigns, DVSA has used additional measures when advertising in and around the Greater London area, such as radio advertising, local managers attending and running recruitment events, and improved social media coverage.

From recent recruitment DVSA has had 11 new DEs successful on their training course. This includes 10 for London and one for Essex.

DVSA is planning training courses to the end of the business year and currently has nine individuals, who will serve the London and Essex areas, confirmed on courses to the end of February. Further applicants are in checks awaiting course dates.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 29 October 2024 to Question 10405 on Driving Licences: Foreign Nationals, if she will hold discussions with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency on the potential merits of recording statistics on the nationality of newly qualified driving licence holders.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

As information on nationality is not required for driving licence purposes, there are no plans for the Driver and Vehicle Agency to record this data for newly qualified drivers.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to extend the lease on the Motorway Service Area at Watford Gap.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

I am able to confirm that lease extension options at the Motorway Service Areas in which the Secretary of State has an interest are the subject of current, detailed discussions with the third parties concerned, including Roadchef who operate Watford Gap Service Area. However, because these are sensitive, on-going commercial negotiations in which value for the taxpayer is being sought, I can share no further details at this time.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions her Department has had with Motorway Service Area operators on the renewal of leases for those areas.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

I am able to confirm that lease extension options at the Motorway Service Areas in which the Secretary of State has an interest are the subject of current, detailed discussions with the third parties concerned, including Roadchef who operate Watford Gap Service Area. However, because these are sensitive, on-going commercial negotiations in which value for the taxpayer is being sought, I can share no further details at this time.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to resolve the status of lease renewals of Motorway Service Areas.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

I am able to confirm that lease extension options at the Motorway Service Areas in which the Secretary of State has an interest are the subject of current, detailed discussions with the third parties concerned, including Roadchef who operate Watford Gap Service Area. However, because these are sensitive, on-going commercial negotiations in which value for the taxpayer is being sought, I can share no further details at this time.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to help repair potholes in Romford constituency.

Answered by Lilian Greenwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government takes the condition of local roads very seriously and is committed to maintaining and renewing the local highway network. Havering Council is the local highway authority for the Romford constituency, and they are therefore responsible for the condition and maintenance of their local network.

This Government has a commitment to enable local highway authorities in England to fix up to a million more potholes a year. At Budget 2024, the Chancellor announced an extra £500 million for local highway maintenance for the 2025/26 financial year, an increase of nearly 50% compared to the current financial year. The Government will confirm funding allocations to English local highway authorities in due course.

As of the budget, we think that working people on lower incomes or who live in rural communities will suffer as a consequence of the decision to raise the bus fare cap to £3. We think bus fares should be permanently capped at £3 after December 2025.

The Government should create a railcard for those over the age of 30. It seems unfair and unjust that people aged 16-30 may get a railcard, but after this cut-off it is not possible to get a railcard unless you are 'senior', travelling with another person, or part of another group, such as veterans.

I think the government should change the legal driving age to 15 because the legal age to drive is 17 and I think both 15 and 16 year olds will be able to drive.

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Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to paragraph 3.19 of the Autumn Budget 2024, HC 295, published on 30 October 2024, if she will publish an allocation breakdown of the £20.4 billion spending on research and development for 2025-26.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

To fully harness the potential of the UK's excellent science base and to foster a dynamic investment economy, the Budget protects record levels of government research and development (R&D) investment with £20.4 billion allocated in 2025-26. This is allocated as per the table below.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to Autumn Budget 2024, HC 295, published on 30 October 2024, if her Department will publish a tabular summary of Capital DEL allocated in the Budget to research and development by Department.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

To fully harness the potential of the UK's excellent science base and to foster a dynamic investment economy, the Budget protects record levels of government research and development (R&D) investment with £20.4 billion allocated in 2025-26. This is allocated as per the table below.

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Question

To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has made regarding the potential impact in Scotland of the wholesale objection by Transport Focus to plans by train operating companies to close the majority of their ticket offices in 2023.

Answered by Hyslop, Fiona - Cabinet Secretary for Transport

The Scottish Government welcomed Transport Focus’ objection to the Department for Transport’s proposals to close the vast majority of its tickets office. It is equally welcome that these draconian proposals were subsequently dropped by the DfT. Unlike this situation, there are no plans to close any ScotRail ticket offices.