Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential for QR code payment systems to reduce administrative costs associated with parking enforcement.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of introducing QR codes on parking penalty charge notices.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with local authorities on increasing the use of QR codes for the payment of parking fines.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment she has made of the adequacy of driving test waiting times in Portsmouth, Lee‑on‑the‑Solent.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has now published more detailed data-sets so learners can get better understanding of the booking system. More information and waiting time data, including for driving test centres (DTC) that serve Portsmouth, Lee-on-the-Solent, can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA recognises the importance of timely access to practical driving tests for learner drivers across the country, and the role this plays in supporting employment, education, and mobility.

The Government set out a comprehensive package of measures in April 2025 to tackle long waiting times, aiming to deliver around 10,000 additional tests per month. DVSA conducted 1.99 million tests between April 2025 and March 2026, a record and 8.6% (159,000) higher than the previous year.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to improve passenger safety at train stations, as part of rail improvement works.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is continually working with Network Rail, train operators and the British Transport Police to improve the passenger experience at stations, including safety.

When station improvement programmes are underway, substantial consideration is given to improvements to enhance the safety of the travelling public. This can include better lighting, CCTV coverage, enhanced surveillance, accessibility upgrades, station design enhancements, staff training and measures to protect vulnerable passengers. In parallel, we are working to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour through increased British Transport Police patrols, enhanced surveillance and monitoring, and targeted enforcement operations at crime hotspots to deter and prosecute offenders.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the proportion of vehicle miles she expects to be autonomous by 2035.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Full implementation of the Automated Vehicles Act in the second half of 2027 will help ensure that any automated vehicles operating on Great Britain’s roads can contribute to overall improvements in road safety.

This technology is expected to be deployed gradually, and overall uptake will depend on a range of factors, including operators being able to meet very high regulatory standards, commercial deployment models, local consent for automated passenger services and the pace of market development.

For these reasons, the overall uptake of automated vehicles is highly uncertain so no estimate of the proportion of vehicle miles which will be automated by 2035 has been made.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the next spending review will include provision for completing the East Birmingham tram extension.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Extensions to the Birmingham Metro are being delivered by West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). WMCA has been allocated £2.4 billion of Transport for City Regions (TCR) funding for the period up until 2031/32. This funding settlement is devolved, and it is for the Mayor to determine how this funding is allocated across the city region in line with local transport priorities. Decisions on funding at future Spending Reviews have not been made and will be taken in the usual way.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how many Class 810 trains were expected to be in passenger service by (a) December 2022, (b) December 2023, (c) December 2024, (d) December 2025 and (e) the latest date for which figures are available.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The expectation at the time of procurement was that all 33 new Class 810 fleet would have been delivered by Hitachi Rail and available for service by December 2022. The first Class 810 trains entered passenger service in December 2025; the latest position is that this fleet is being introduced through a phased roll-out during 2026 and 2027.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the proportion of rolling stock not required for the planned timetable for each train operating company in each month since July 2024.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department does not hold this information which is a detailed planning matter for train operators.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to section 5 of the Government Efficiency Framework, if he will publish the most recent quarterly efficiency report provided by the Office of Rail and Road.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has not provided a quarterly efficiency report under section 5 of the Government Efficiency Framework. ORR is not currently required to submit quarterly efficiency reports to HM Treasury and has not formally been asked to report progress against savings and efficiency measures through that mechanism. ORR has, however, identified savings and technical efficiencies as part of the 2025 Spending Review process and reports on its financial and operational performance through its published governance and reporting arrangements, including its Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 on SEND learners and anxious or vulnerable pupils who rely on ADIs to manage test bookings on their behalf.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Whether the consultation on the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 met all four Gunning Principles, and what steps were taken to ensure respondents were provided with sufficient information to give informed responses.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the de minimis impact assessment accompanying the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2026.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the proportionality of prohibiting Approved Driving Instructors from booking driving tests on behalf of pupils, and whether alternative regulatory options were considered.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, What assessment her Department has made of the integrity, accuracy and security of the dataset used by the DVSA during the consultation on the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2026.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the DVSA will publish the evidence it that Approved Driving Instructors were significantly misusing the driving test booking system prior to the introduction of the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2026.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps the DVSA has taken to address cybersecurity in the Online Booking System.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) understand the vast majority of instructors who used the online booking service were doing so legitimately.  Changes to the rules, however, were critical to prevent the reselling of tests at inflated prices. Prior to the changes, DVSA introduced updated terms and conditions for use of the service driving instructors and trainers used to book and manage practical driving tests for their pupils, on 6 January 2025. Between then and 12 May 2026, DVSA issued 418 warnings, 663 suspensions, and closed 1178 business accounts, for misuse of the booking system.

DVSA conducted a full and open consultation in line with the Government’s consultation principles. The overarching principles for Government public consultations have been correctly followed before introducing these changes. Further information about those principles can be found on GOV.UK.

DVSA’s priority was to stop the exploitation of learners through the reselling of driving tests at inflated prices. The changes to the booking process are proportionate to achieve this.

The consultation data used to inform the changes has been analytically assured and details of the analysis process used was published in the response to the consultation on GOV.UK.

The De Minimis assessment was conducted in line with the Better Regulation Framework.  This provided a structured approach to decision making by evaluating the potential benefits, risks, and implications of different choices, in line with the better regulation framework guidance. The De Minimis Assessment has been published online and was reviewed by Departmental economists prior to publication.

DVSA is aware that some learners might need help with the online booking process, particularly those with accessibility requirements or learning disabilities, and will continue to ensure that the online booking system is accessible and meets government digital accessibility standards, in addition to offering telephone support through the customer service centre.

Although approved driving instructors and other third-parties are no longer permitted to book a test on behalf of a learner driver, they can offer support and guidance to help them with the booking process.

As well as changes to the booking system, DVSA continues to deploy enhanced bot protection to help mitigate automated systems from buying up tests unfairly. However, these applications constantly evolve and change. DVSA’s work on this is ongoing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the answer of 15 July 2026 to question 17243, what the threshold is for transport operators to report cyber security incidents involving them.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Mandatory thresholds for reporting cyber security incidents under the Network & Information Systems Regulations 2018 can be found on gov.uk at the following link (Annex E, p42 onwards):

Implementation of the NIS directive: DfT guidance version 1.1 (https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5ee3a21ae90e0704315ecf32/implementation-of-the-nis-directive-dft-guidance-document.pdf)

No thresholds are set for voluntary reporting outside of the regulatory requirements.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps are being taken to reduce the number of delays that passengers face on train journeys.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

In response to Ministers’ challenge, the rail industry has set out a Performance Restoration Framework, to improve punctuality and reliability by addressing the root causes of delays and cancellations, including timetable resilience, staffing, fleet reliability and infrastructure performance.

DfT Operator (DfTO), as the Government’s public sector rail owning group, will continue to work with Network Rail and train operators to drive whole-system improvement and deliver tangible change for customers. The Department will continue to hold DfTO and Network Rail to account for delivery of operational performance.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to encourage local authorities to adopt digital payment technologies that reduce administrative burdens for motorists and enforcement authorities.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has issued guidance on the use of digital payment methods, including QR codes, for parking penalty charge notices.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department is encouraging local authorities to consider the National Parking Platform, which enables motorists to use their preferred parking app across participating areas. This supports greater choice and competition, makes parking simpler for motorists and can help reduce administrative burdens for local authorities and enforcement authorities.

The Secretary of State has not made other assessments and there are no plans to introduce QR codes as a means of digital payment.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the number of train delays affecting Mid Cheshire constituency in the last 12 months.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department does not compile delay statistics on a constituency basis. We have made punctuality and cancellation data available at more than 1,700 stations across England, including Hartford, Winsford, Northwich and Greenbank, which can be accessed via the Office of Rail and Road’s new data portal which is available at the following website:

https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/performance.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Health Impact Analysis conducted as part of the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, how many of the 671 sports and recreational facilities located within a 15km radius of Heathrow Airport are a) playing fields and b) sports halls.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Health Impact Analysis published alongside the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement identified 671 sports and recreational facilities within a 15km radius of Heathrow Airport. The facilities included playing fields, leisure centres, sports clubs, golf clubs, gyms and recreational fields, however the Department does not hold separate counts for those categories.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to reduce congestion on key commuter routes in the West Midlands.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government is supporting improvements to public transport connectivity across the West Midlands through the £2.4 billion Transport for City Regions settlement allocated to the West Midlands Combined Authority through to 2031/32.

This devolved funding gives the Combined Authority, and the Mayor, the flexibility to determine local transport investment priorities, including those that improve connectivity and help tackle congestion on key commuter routes across the region.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what criteria the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency uses to determine the allocation of practical driving test appointments across test centres; and whether he has plans to review that allocation to improve access for candidates in areas with limited local availability.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The number of tests available to book at any given driving test centre (DTC) is based on the number of driving examiners (DE) available to conduct tests at that DTC.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is committed to providing its customers, in all parts of the country, with the best service possible. DVSA continually reviews its estate, to ensure it represents good value for money and is efficient, and its workforce requirements in response to customer demand and operational need.

As part of this approach, DVSA has continued to run national recruitment campaigns for DEs across the country. These campaigns are intended to address recruitment pressures and improve driving test capacity, particularly in areas with the greatest demand.

The Government set out a comprehensive package of measures in April 2025 to tackle long waiting times, aiming to deliver around 10,000 additional tests per month. A key step was reintroducing overtime incentives. DVSA has also made changes to make the booking system fairer. These are practical steps to increase supply, protect access to tests, and bring waiting times down, across the country.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps she is taking to eliminate backlogs in processing medical licence renewals for drivers.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has seen sustained growth in the volume and complexity of medical driving licence applications. Processing times can vary depending on the medical condition involved and whether further information is needed from doctors or other healthcare professionals.

To improve services, the DVLA has introduced a new casework system and digital medical services portal. The online service covers around 1,600 medical conditions and allows most customers to apply online through their DVLA driver and vehicles account.

Further enhancements will be introduced for provisional licence applicants, customers aged 70 and over renewing their licence, and those whose licence was previously surrendered or revoked. The DVLA has also recruited additional staff to process applications and answer calls. These measures are expected to improve turnaround times for customers.

Customers are encouraged to use the online service wherever possible to help speed up processing.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the number of train delays affecting Spalding railway station in the last 12 months.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Over the last 12-months there were 8,721 station stops at Spalding, of these 6,461 were early or within one minute of the scheduled arrival time, 1,209 were between one and three minutes late and 1,051 were three or more minutes late.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the reliability of East Midlands Railway services serving Leicester; and what steps she is taking to improve punctuality and reduce cancellations on the Midland Main Line.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department recognises that the recent reliability of East Midlands Railway (EMR) services serving Leicester and the Midland Main Line has not been adequate. The Department, through DFTO, has been clear to EMR that the current service is unacceptable and is working closely with EMR and industry partners to urgently improve performance.

From 31 August 2026, EMR will increase its Intercity services from 87% to 92% of the full planned timetable, this represents a significant step towards restoring services for passengers. This improved timetable has been designed around the trains currently available and will restore a number of previously withdrawn services, while improving overall reliability and resilience. It is expected to reduce planned weekly cancellations across the Intercity route by approximately 45% compared with the temporary timetable introduced in July. The enhanced timetable will also increase capacity on EMR’s Intercity services from 81% to 84% of the full planned timetable.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions she has had with East Midlands Railway on improving the performance of services between Leicester and London St Pancras.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department recognises that the recent reliability of East Midlands Railway (EMR) services serving Leicester and the Midland Main Line has not been adequate. The Department, through DFTO, has been clear to EMR that the current service is unacceptable and is working closely with EMR and industry partners to urgently improve performance.

From 31 August 2026, EMR will increase its Intercity services from 87% to 92% of the full planned timetable, this represents a significant step towards restoring services for passengers. This improved timetable has been designed around the trains currently available and will restore a number of previously withdrawn services, while improving overall reliability and resilience. It is expected to reduce planned weekly cancellations across the Intercity route by approximately 45% compared with the temporary timetable introduced in July. The enhanced timetable will also increase capacity on EMR’s Intercity services from 81% to 84% of the full planned timetable.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 15 July 2026 to Question 17502 on Shipping: Russia, how many of the (a) 343 unique vessels and (b) 849 occasions have been since 24 March 2026.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

96 of the 849 transits referenced in Question 17502 took place from 24 March 2026 onwards. 91 of these transits were undertaken by unique vessels.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has made of the potential impact of moving to a volunteer-with-expenses model for Coastguard Rescue Officers from September 2026 on recruitment, retention and operational readiness in Northern Ireland.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Plans to move the Coastguard Rescue Service to an expenses-only volunteer model in September will not go ahead.

We will now take time to gather the robust information required to understand the full operational implications of future decisions, as well as the impact on individual Coastguard Rescue Officers (CRO) and the choices they will make. This will involve engaging with CROs directly and ensuring that their views inform the decisions that we will take on the shape of the Coastguard Rescue Service.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what progress has been made on simplifying the rail fares and ticketing system.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

We are already taking steps to simplify the rail fares and ticketing system and to make it easier for passengers to trust they are buying the right ticket at the right fare. The move to GBR will enable passengers to receive a more consistent offer across the network, supporting simpler fares, ticketing and retail arrangements. GBR's online retailer will bring together 14 existing websites and apps to one site to deliver a simpler, more consistent service across the country.

We are also taking forward long-distance fares reform. The LNER ‘Simpler Fares’ trial has introduced more flexible products for passengers, making it easier to choose cheaper, less busy trains, putting passenger choice first and tackling overcrowding.

The expansion of Pay As You Go (PAYG) means that more passengers can now access tap in tap out contactless payments, creating a seamless travel experience and allowing people to benefit from daily and weekly caps. We are also trialling new technology including Digital Pay As You Go (DPAYG).

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the surface access requirements in the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS) will require the promoter to deliver or fund a direct rail route between Woking and Heathrow Airport.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government recognises the importance of surface access to any future expansion of Heathrow Airport.

The draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement states that enhanced rail connectivity is necessary to support expansion and achieve public transport mode share targets. It requires any expansion promoter to set out in its surface access strategy, required as part of the development consent process, the rail enhancements it proposes to deliver, together with a credible delivery plan and how any necessary schemes will be financed, developed with Network Rail and other relevant stakeholders.

The Government has not identified a preferred rail scheme, giving promoters flexibility to develop proposals that support their wider surface access strategy.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the answer of 15 July 2026 to question 17243, how many reported cyber security incidents led to the cancellation or amendment to the affected transport services.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Of the fourteen incidents in scope of question 17243, one incident led to the cancellation or amendment of transport services delivered.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 6 July 2026 to Question 14998 on the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and British Overseas Territories, what the total cost was of each monitoring visit undertaken since 4 July 2024, broken down by (a) travel, (b) accommodation, (c) subsistence and (d) other expenditure.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The total cost of each monitoring visit undertaken by officials from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to British Overseas Territories, broken down by travel, accommodation, subsistence and other expenditure since 4 July 2024 is shown below: This does not include staff salaries, subsistence is estimated in some areas. Other expenditure may include items such as a hire car booked locally. The audit team composition reflects the scope of the audit as well as the training needs for new auditors and succession planning.

The MCA undertakes these visits in order to provide assurance that Overseas Territories’ maritime administrations continue to meet their international maritime obligations and the standards set under the Red Ensign Group framework.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 13 July 2026 to Question 15858 on Network Rail: Biodiversity, which sites or projects do the standard licenses for (a) badgers, (b) bats, (c) great crested wewts, (d) hazel dormice and (e) roman snails relate to.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

As protected species can be vulnerable to disturbance, persecution or collection Network Rail does not publicly publish a project or site list of where its protected species licences apply.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 9 July 2026 to Question 16088 on Department for Transport: India, what the (a) destination and (b) cost to the public purse was of each of the 12 additional journeys approved from the Department's overseas posting in New Delhi under the qualifying hardship post policy since 4 July 2024.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport follows the hardship policy set by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, including the entitlement to additional journeys. Since 4 July 2024, 12 additional journeys have been approved from the Department's overseas posting in New Delhi under this policy. The cost to the public purse is limited to flights only.

The destinations and costs were:

The total cost of all additional journeys was £7,270.70.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of the (a) powers and (b) resources of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to enforce compliance with Construction and Use Regulations relating to (i) trailers lengths and (ii) abnormal load configurations.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport, through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), collects data on non-compliant vehicles, trailers and load configurations through roadside inspections and targeted enforcement activity. This includes offences and defects relating to roadworthiness, vehicle dimensions, weight limits, load security and compliance with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. Information on enforcement action, including prohibitions, fixed penalties and prosecutions, is also recorded.

DVSA has powers under road traffic legislation to stop, inspect, weigh and prohibit non-compliant vehicles. DVSA conducts enforcement activities using a targeted enforcement approach, using Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology and intelligence and data insights, to focus resources on the operators and vehicles posing the greatest risk to road safety. DVSA officers are trained and accredited to exercise these powers, and enforcement policies and operational guidance are kept under review to ensure they remain effective and proportionate.

In 2025-26, DVSA detected 28,837 serious roadworthiness defects and traffic offences through its enforcement activity, demonstrating the continued effectiveness of its targeted approach to improving compliance and road safety.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what data her Department collects on the use of non-compliant (a) vehicles, (b) trailers and (c) load configurations on the road network.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport, through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), collects data on non-compliant vehicles, trailers and load configurations through roadside inspections and targeted enforcement activity. This includes offences and defects relating to roadworthiness, vehicle dimensions, weight limits, load security and compliance with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. Information on enforcement action, including prohibitions, fixed penalties and prosecutions, is also recorded.

DVSA has powers under road traffic legislation to stop, inspect, weigh and prohibit non-compliant vehicles. DVSA conducts enforcement activities using a targeted enforcement approach, using Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology and intelligence and data insights, to focus resources on the operators and vehicles posing the greatest risk to road safety. DVSA officers are trained and accredited to exercise these powers, and enforcement policies and operational guidance are kept under review to ensure they remain effective and proportionate.

In 2025-26, DVSA detected 28,837 serious roadworthiness defects and traffic offences through its enforcement activity, demonstrating the continued effectiveness of its targeted approach to improving compliance and road safety.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of trends in the level of (a) cancellation rates and (b) service reliability on Thameslink services since the operator transferred into public ownership.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Thameslink services transferred into public ownership on 31 May 2026, and the Department has not yet made a formal assessment of trends in cancellation rates and service reliability since that transfer.

However, the new public sector operator has committed to a range of measures intended to improve reliability and reduce cancellations, including recruiting additional drivers, completing the Thameslink automatic train operation training programme and introducing further operational improvements across the network.

These measures will take time to implement, but they will have long lasting benefit to passengers.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of (a) vehicles, (b) trailers and (c) load configurations operating outside the requirements of Construction and Use Regulations on road safety.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The UK has historically been a global leader in road safety. However, the government recognises that there is always more that can be done to build a safer future for all road users. That is why we published our new Road Safety Strategy earlier this year, setting out our vision for a safer future on our roads for all.

Vehicles or vehicle configurations that exceed the limits set out in the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 are classified as abnormal and indivisible loads and these are regulated under the Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003. As these vehicles are typically heavier and/or larger than is allowed for standard vehicles, hauliers must notify the police, local highway authorities, and bridge or structure owners prior to beginning their route. Depending on the width and overall size, these vehicle movements may require attendants, pilot cars, or police escorts. Operators must also provide indemnities to highway and bridge authorities for potential road wear or infrastructure damage.

Any vehicle which exceeds any of the requirements under the Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 needs specific authorisation, via a Vehicle Special Order issued under Section 44 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. This authorisation allows the vehicle to be used legally on public roads despite its non-compliance.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of non-compliance with Construction and Use Regulations on competition in the haulage and logistics sector.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The department has not made a specific assessment of the impact of non-compliance with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 on competition in the haulage and logistics sector. Compliance with vehicle standards is enforced through DVSA's roadside enforcement activity and the operator licensing regime overseen by the Traffic Commissioners. The government expects all operators to comply with the legal requirements that apply to them to ensure fairness and safety.

DVSA adopts an intelligence-led approach to enforcement, targeting resources towards areas of greatest risk and non-compliance. This approach is intended to maximise the effectiveness of enforcement activity while avoiding unnecessary burdens on compliant operators.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her department has assessed how local authorities' interpretations of blue badge regulations differ.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department has not conducted an assessment of how local authorities' interpretations of Blue Badge regulations differ. The Department expects all local authorities to comply with the relevant Blue Badge legislation.

Within that framework, local authorities are responsible for determining and implementing the administrative, assessment, and enforcement procedures they consider to be in accordance with the governing legislation.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to review Civil Enforcement Officer powers where there is a repeated contravention of parking restrictions over the course of a single day within a localised area.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

There are no plans to review Civil Enforcement Officer (CEO) powers. In the event that multiple parking contraventions are observed, CEOs have powers to issue a Penalty Charge Notice in respect of each contravention.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the answer of 8 July 2026 to Question 14349 on Civil Service: Temporary Employment, if she will list each of the internship schemes that have been made available in the last 12 months through the Department, other than the Fast Stream Summer Internship Programme.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport Central has not made available any internship schemes in the last 12 months other than the Fast Stream Summer Internship Programme.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to review the adequacy of current legislation relating to the accountability of corporate entities that benefit from transport operations involving (a) vehicles, (b) trailers or (c) load configurations that do not comply with statutory Construction and Use Regulations.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department for Transport takes compliance with vehicle, trailer and load safety requirements seriously. Existing legislation provides enforcement powers and sanctions where statutory requirements are breached. We keep the effectiveness of the legislative framework under review, but there are currently no plans to undertake a specific review of the accountability of corporate entities who use transport operators in relation to breaches of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations.

Where operators fail to comply with relevant legal requirements, Traffic Commissioners may take action against their operator licence, including curtailment, suspension or revocation.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether LNER will introduce card readers with tactile buttons on their trains for visually impaired people.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

LNER’s Train Managers already use payment devices with tactile buttons and markings. LNER’s café bar devices currently use touchscreens and LNER is exploring accessibility improvements.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent assessment she has made of trends in the level of passenger satisfaction with East Midlands Railway services operating through Leicester.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department monitors passenger satisfaction across the rail network through a range of measures, including independent passenger research, operator surveys, complaints data and other customer feedback. The Department recognises that recent reductions in East Midlands Railway (EMR) intercity services serving Leicester, together with poorer reliability, are likely to have adversely affected passengers' satisfaction with their journeys.

These issues have been driven in part by delays to the introduction of EMR's new Aurora trains, which have reduced resilience during the transition period and led EMR to introduce a temporary reduced intercity timetable from 20 July 2026 to minimise short-notice cancellations and improve reliability. The Department, through DfT Operator Ltd. (DFTO), is working closely with EMR and Network Rail to improve performance and passenger experience. From 31 August 2026, EMR will increase its intercity services from 87 per cent to 92 per cent of the planned timetable, restoring a number of previously withdrawn services and representing a significant step towards returning to normal operation.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what the average cancellation rate for East Midlands Railway services calling at Leicester station was in each of the last five years.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Department does not hold the data for 2021/22 centrally. Average cancellation rate for East Midlands Railway services calling at Leicester station in each of the last four financial years is set out in the table below.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations expiring on 31 July 2026 on the ability of students aged 16 and over in rural areas to travel to their place of education or training in the 2026/27 academic year.

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

Following careful consideration, we have decided to offer further exemptions from the Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations for home-to-school services until 2030. The coach sector has benefitted from exemptions since 2019 when providing home-to-school and rail replacement services. Improved accessibility on rail replacement services means exemptions are now only required for school transport.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 10 July 2026 to Question 14939 on Large Goods Vehicles: Electric Vehicles, what use cases her Department considered when assessing the purchase price differential between diesel heavy goods vehicles and equivalent zero-emission heavy goods vehicles.

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

The assessment of purchase price differential was made by comparing zero-emission HGVs with diesel equivalents across the main heavy goods vehicle weight categories eligible for the Zero Emission Truck Grant, including rigid trucks from above 4.25 tonnes to 12 tonnes, above 12 tonnes to 18 tonnes, above 18 tonnes to 26 tonnes, and both rigid and articulated trucks above 26 tonnes.

Operational assumptions such as average annual mileage are relevant to total cost of ownership analysis, rather than to the upfront purchase price differential itself.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to WPQ 17035, on what date will the Masterplan for Euston be published.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the Answer of 16 July 2026 to Written question 16520.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make it her policy to deliver a new M1 to A6 Link Road near to Streatley in Mid Bedfordshire.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The M1 to A6 Link Road scheme received Full Approval from the Department for Transport in 2021, which confirmed a maximum funding contribution of £32.75 million as part of the Major Road Network/Large Local Majors Programme. The Department's funding contribution is fixed and no further Departmental funding is available for the scheme.

The scheme is promoted by Central Bedfordshire Council, which is responsible for providing the remaining funds as well as delivering the scheme. Decisions on how to deliver the project are a matter for Central Bedfordshire Council and its delivery partners.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the answer of 18 May 2026 to Question 470 on Pedestrian Crossings: Design, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of adopting the Welsh Government's amendments to section 14 of the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2026.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

As set out in Better Connected: a strategy for integrated transport that was published on 2 April this year, the Department is updating the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions to permit new, simpler zebra crossings.

The Department for Transport is aware of the changes made by the Welsh Government and will consider all relevant information in taking this work forward.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to improve road safety for motorcyclists.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Everyone who uses our roads has a right to feel safe, including motorcyclists. With that in mind, the Department included motorcyclists in the new Road Safety Strategy. The Strategy sets an ambitious target to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on British roads by 65% by 2035. Improving motorcycle safety is an integral part of that aim.

As part of the Road Safety Strategy, the Government launched a consultation on an ambitious package of reforms to the training, testing and licensing regime for Category A moped and motorcycle licences in Great Britain.

This consultation, which opened on 7 January and closed on 11 May, will help inform a targeted review of the training, testing and licensing regime.

As set out in the Road Safety Strategy, the government is now supporting further PRIME pilot trials in additional regions across the country. PRIME is a targeted road safety initiative designed to help motorcyclists negotiate sharp bends more safely. These pilots will be subject to the necessary technical approvals. The Department for Transport will also ensure that all participating authorities undertake robust monitoring and evaluation so that the effectiveness and safety benefits of PRIME can be fully assessed.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has plans to review the regulation or guidance relating to emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads, particularly those near residential areas.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Noise controls for aerodromes are set through the local planning system where appropriate and enforcement is a matter for the local authority. Local authorities also have a duty to monitor air quality in their areas.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets noise standards for helicopters. While ICAO sets engine emissions standards for commercial aircraft, these do not apply to helicopters. The environmental and public health impacts of emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads are likely to be very small and there is no routine monitoring of these emissions.

The Department has no plans to review the regulation or guidance relating to emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of existing arrangements for monitoring emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Noise controls for aerodromes are set through the local planning system where appropriate and enforcement is a matter for the local authority. Local authorities also have a duty to monitor air quality in their areas.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets noise standards for helicopters. While ICAO sets engine emissions standards for commercial aircraft, these do not apply to helicopters. The environmental and public health impacts of emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads are likely to be very small and there is no routine monitoring of these emissions.

The Department has no plans to review the regulation or guidance relating to emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the environmental and public health impacts of emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Noise controls for aerodromes are set through the local planning system where appropriate and enforcement is a matter for the local authority. Local authorities also have a duty to monitor air quality in their areas.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets noise standards for helicopters. While ICAO sets engine emissions standards for commercial aircraft, these do not apply to helicopters. The environmental and public health impacts of emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads are likely to be very small and there is no routine monitoring of these emissions.

The Department has no plans to review the regulation or guidance relating to emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what data the Department holds on the number of enquiries received by the UK Maritime Innovation Hub since its launch.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what data the Department holds on the number of organisations supported by the UK Maritime Innovation Hub since its launch.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of the availability of driving tests within (a) half an hour, (b) an hour and (c) two hours travel of the Gosport peninsula.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Waiting time data for the driving test centres, as listed in Answer to Question 70415,  within (a) half an hour, (b) an hour and (c) two hours travel of the Gosport peninsula, is now published regularly online. More information on the data now being published and a link to this can be found on GOV.UK.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the public expenditure required for supporting rail, road and other surface-access improvements connected with Heathrow expansion.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Any expansion at Heathrow Airport, would be privately financed, including any required surface access improvements. The draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement requires any promoter of expansion to meet the full cost of associated works to the strategic and local road network and to develop a surface access strategy setting out how transport improvements, including any rail schemes needed to support the required mode share targets, will be funded.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will outline the proposed timeline of the government consultation on the legislation on E-scooters and E-bikes.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government plans to consult on e-scooter regulations over the next year.

We will also consult on the implementation of licensing for shared cycle schemes over the coming months to ensure we deliver a combination of regulations and guidance which empowers our local leaders to maximise the benefits of these schemes and tackle negative impacts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Answer of 14 April 2026 to Question 124216, whether the final modifications have been delivered and tested on the trains that will be used on East West Rail from West Midlands Trains.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Modifications are nearing completion, and a full testing regime is underway that will support the safety validation process. A start date for the services will be announced as soon as it is possible to do so.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what estimate she has made of the cost of relocating or rebuilding the M25 and other affected roads as part of any Heathrow expansion project.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government has been clear that if Heathrow expansion proceeds it will be privately financed. Any works required to the strategic or local road networks, including the M25, would form part of the promoter’s cost estimates for its scheme. The costs of such works will depend on the final scheme design brought forward by the promoter and would be subject to scrutiny through the development consent process.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency's press release entitled UK Maritime Innovation Hub establishes role as focal point for maritime innovation, published on 20 July 2026, what discussions his Department has had with maritime technology developers on improving access to regulatory support through the UK Maritime Innovation Hub.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency's press release entitled UK Maritime Innovation Hub establishes role as focal point for maritime innovation, published on 20 July 2026, what metrics will be used to assess the success of the UK Maritime Innovation Hub.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has taken steps to assess and act upon the recommendations in the June 2026 report from the APPG for Cycling and Walking, on illegal e-bikes, in particular around police and local authority enforcement.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Enforcement of road traffic law is an operational matter for the police, but the Government has strengthened the tools available to them through the Crime and Policing Act 2026, including new powers to seize vehicles, including illegal e-bikes used antisocially, without first issuing a warning. Local authority Trading Standards services are supported by the Office for Product Safety and Standards which works with them to remove unsafe products from the market.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential effect of Heathrow expansion on passenger charges, airline ticket prices and the competitiveness of regional airports.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government recognises the importance of keeping air travel affordable for passengers and airlines. Heathrow's airport charges are regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which has a statutory duty to further the interests of users of air transport services. In setting Heathrow's regulatory framework, the CAA considers the impact of airport charges on consumers and seeks to ensure that such charges are justified.

The Government also supports competition across the UK aviation sector, including at regional airports, and supports regional air connectivity through a range of measures, such as Public Service Obligations. The potential impacts of Heathrow expansion on passengers, airlines and connectivity are considered through the relevant regulatory and planning processes. Relevant analysis was published alongside the consultation on the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, including forecasts of passenger numbers and aircraft movements.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the press release entitled UK Maritime Innovation Hub establishes role as focal point for maritime innovation, published on 20 July 2026, what recent discussions she has had with ports and shipowners on the work of the UK Maritime Innovation Hub.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the press release entitled UK Maritime Innovation Hub establishes role as focal point for maritime innovation, published on 20 July 2026, what discussions she has had with universities and research organisations on supporting maritime innovation through the Hub.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the Department plans to publish an evaluation of the UK Maritime Innovation Hub after its first year of operation.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what was the cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

My officials at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s UK Maritime Innovation Hub (UKMIH) regularly engage with maritime technology developers, ports, shipowners, universities, research organisations and other maritime stakeholders.

Establishment of the Hub was set out in Government's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025, and the Hub was launched in April 2026. Since then, discussions have focused on improving access to early regulatory engagement and helping organisations understand the regulatory requirements and potential approval pathways relevant to emerging maritime technologies. The Hub provides a clear point of contact for innovators, facilitates engagement between industry and regulators, and supports organisations seeking to undertake safe trials and demonstrations.

The Hub also helps organisations engage effectively with major government funding programmes, including my Department’s UK SHORE Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, and signposts organisations to other opportunities, including the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG) programme.

Engagement with ports and shipowners has included discussion of the regulatory considerations associated with innovative technologies, opportunities for trials and demonstrations, and collaboration between industry, government and regulators. Discussions with universities and research organisations have included collaboration on emerging technologies, access to specialist expertise and research capabilities, the development and testing of innovative solutions, and improving understanding of the regulatory environment in areas including decarbonisation, autonomy, digitalisation and nuclear propulsion.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency records enquiries, meetings and wider stakeholder engagement undertaken through the Hub. To date, the Hub has logged 299 enquiries and engagement with 242 organisations.

The total cost of establishing and operating the UK Maritime Innovation Hub to date is £314,453.

The Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency keep the effectiveness of the Hub under review as it continues to develop. There are currently no plans to publish a separate evaluation following its first year of operation. Its performance is monitored through operational and stakeholder engagement measures, including demand for support, the effective coordination of regulatory engagement, timely access to relevant expertise, and its contribution to supporting organisations developing innovative maritime technologies.

The Hub’s performance is formally assessed through four Key Performance Indicators, which are reported through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has independently verified Heathrow Airport Limited’s projected cost of expansion.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS) makes clear that potential promoters should seek to minimise costs where possible. Given the long-term nature of the expansion programme and significant costs that will likely be involved, the Government will consider the affordability of any proposed expansion scheme as part of the Development Consent Order planning process.

Responsibility for scrutinising the efficiency of expansion costs, including those proposed by Heathrow Airport Limited, sits with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) as the independent economic regulator. The Department continues to work closely with the CAA as it develops the regulatory framework for expansion and considers the appropriate arrangements for cost scrutiny and oversight.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of trends in the level of commercial delivery work being undertaken by moped and motorcycle riders who hold only a learner permit; and whether her Department plans to review the use of learner permits in commercial delivery work.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government expects those driving or riding for work to keep both themselves and other road users safe. As such we have committed to piloting a new voluntary Work-Related Road Safety Charter that is being developed in partnership with industry. The Charter will be informed by existing schemes such as Driving for Better Business and encourage everyone involved in driving or riding for work to improve road safety. That includes delivery drivers riding mopeds.

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) consultation on improving moped and motorcycle training, testing and licensing closed on 11 May. The consultation was launched with a range of measures designed to support a targeted review of the training, testing and licensing framework for motorcyclists, and the aim of improving safety and modernising and simplifying access to motorcycling. In part, reforms aim to encourage progression to full licences, particularly for those riding for work. We are now analysing the responses and will publish the outcome of the consultation on GOV.UK.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the impact of (a) pavement parking and (b) e-bikes on the safety of people who use guide dogs in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Secretary of State has not made any assessment of the impact of pavement parking or e-bikes on the safety of guide dog users specifically in Surrey Heath.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of reserving a proportion of driving test appointments for candidates requiring a resit of a test to reduce (a) test waiting lists and (b) costs for learner drivers.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) does not operate a cancellation service or reserve a proportion of driving test appointments for candidates requiring a resit of their practical driving test. DVSA advises learners to regularly check for new appointments. Test appointments are released on a rolling 24-week basis, and additional appointments are added as soon as they become available.

All learner drivers have their own valid reason for wanting to take their test as soon as they can. Prioritising learners who have not been successful passing their previous practical test over another learner driver would not be fair.

DVSA has published guidance targeted at family and friends of learner drivers, which can be found on GOV.UK at supervise a learner driver. If a learner can access private practice, this might help reduce their learning to drive costs. They can then pick up lessons with their driving instructor prior to their booked test.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what plans she has to increase testing capacity in Ayrshire.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publishes data on car practical test cancellation reasons by month and driving test centre (DTC) on GOV.UK. This data, in report DRT122B, is updated annually and currently shows data to March 2026. The next update is due to be published in June 2027.

The Government set out a comprehensive package of measures in April 2025 to tackle long waiting times across the whole of Great Britain, aiming to deliver around 10,000 additional tests per month. A key step was reintroducing overtime incentives. DVSA conducted 1.99 million tests between April 2025 and March 2026, a record and 8.6% (159,000) higher than the previous year.

DVSA has also made changes to make the booking system fairer, as well as continuing to run national recruitment campaigns for driving examiners (DE) across the country.

DVSA has two permanent test centres in Ayrshire, which are Ayr and Irvine DTCs. Both DTCs also serve a number of outstations across Ayrshire.

A new entrant DE passed their training course last week and will start testing from Ayr this week. DVSA also has a new entrant currently in training for Irvine who, if successful, will join the test centre in October.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department has reviewed the eligibility requirements for riders progressing from a 50cc motorcycle to a 125cc motorcycle.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government has announced a consultation on a package of reforms to the training, testing and licensing regime for category A moped and motorcycle licences in Great Britain.

The consultation, opened on 7 January and closed on 11 May 2026. The responses are currently being analysed. Further information about the consultation is available on GOV.UK

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how many practical driving tests were cancelled due to examiner shortages at the Irvine Driving Test Centre in the last 12 months.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publishes data on car practical test cancellation reasons by month and driving test centre (DTC) on GOV.UK. This data, in report DRT122B, is updated annually and currently shows data to March 2026. The next update is due to be published in June 2027.

The Government set out a comprehensive package of measures in April 2025 to tackle long waiting times across the whole of Great Britain, aiming to deliver around 10,000 additional tests per month. A key step was reintroducing overtime incentives. DVSA conducted 1.99 million tests between April 2025 and March 2026, a record and 8.6% (159,000) higher than the previous year.

DVSA has also made changes to make the booking system fairer, as well as continuing to run national recruitment campaigns for driving examiners (DE) across the country.

DVSA has two permanent test centres in Ayrshire, which are Ayr and Irvine DTCs. Both DTCs also serve a number of outstations across Ayrshire.

A new entrant DE passed their training course last week and will start testing from Ayr this week. DVSA also has a new entrant currently in training for Irvine who, if successful, will join the test centre in October.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of point-of-sale registration on tackling illegal vehicle sales.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

No specific assessment has been made of the potential impact of point-of-sale registration on tackling illegal vehicle sales. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) already requires notification when a vehicle is bought or sold and maintains vehicle and registered keeper records to support efforts to tackle vehicle-related crime.

The DVLA encourages keeper details to be updated at the point of sale wherever possible, using online, paper and dealer notification services. Prompt notification helps keep the vehicle register accurate and up to date.

Safeguards are in place to help prevent criminal or fraudulent activity. Where an application is made for a vehicle registration certificate (V5C) and the DVLA has not been told that the registered keeper has disposed of the vehicle, the DVLA contacts the keeper to confirm this before issuing a V5C. Access to the latest V5C is also required to use the DVLA’s online services.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to WPQ 17032, at what level are the charges expected to be set for the Lower Thames Crossing.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The level of charges has not yet been set and is subject to ongoing analysis and development of the project. Under the Regulated Asset Base model, which is the government’s preferred funding structure for Lower Thames Crossing, the charge levels will be set to cover the economic and efficient costs of service provision, including a fair return on investment for the private sector, with a regulator in place to protect user interests.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she plans to review the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's guidance on transferring a registration plate from a vehicle subject to a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) to ensure that registered keepers are made aware of all available routes to retain vehicle registration plates.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) publishes clear guidance on retaining or transferring vehicle registration numbers at www.gov.uk/personalised-vehicle-registration-numbers/take-private-number-off. The requirements are also set out in the relevant forms and information leaflets.

Strict requirements must be met before a registration number can be retained or transferred, including checks to help identify and prevent fraudulent applications. The vehicle must still exist and be capable of mechanical propulsion. Where a vehicle is subject to a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), an application will only be considered in specific circumstances, including where the SORN has been in place for less than five years. If the SORN has been in place for five years or more, an MOT test is required. Where an MOT test is not feasible, the DVLA may, in exceptional circumstances, arrange an inspection to confirm that the vehicle can move under its own power.

Found: Department for Transport and Ministry of Housing are vital to addressing regional challenges like flood

Found: The Department for Transport needs to take a proper interest in improving rural upland communities’

Found: and Considering Children in Resilience and Emergencies (for resilience professionals) ● Department for Transport

Found: DFT 34 7.1. DFT Core 34 7.2. HS2 36 7.3. Network Rail 38 7.4. National Highways 40 8.

Found: Ministry of Defence ● Department for Environment and Rural affairs ● Department for Transport

Found: Professional Services costs relate to Programme expenditure, supporting frontline delivery DFT

Found: numerous, with departments initially proposing long lists of targets and indicators (e.g., the Department for Transport

Found: DfT insisted that Camden must drop it's support for my alternative integrated station concept in favour

Found: , as well as with the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), and Department for Transport

Found: coordinating the multiple public and private stakeholders involved in the programme, including the Department for Transport

Found: Virgin Trains, Chair of ScotRail, Non-executive Director at Network Rail and Operator of Last Resort / DfT

Found: Who: DfT Accounting Officer.

Found: (For confirmation of the above please see DfT Press release dated January 10 2012) The announcement

Found: TfL and the Greater London Authority are engaging regularly and constructively with the Department for Transport

Found: 2025 prices — first services not before 2036, the full Euston scheme not before 2040 (Department for Transport

Found: these lessons through projects such as Mini Switzerland, which I developed and which was funded by the DfT

Found: The Committee has previously concluded that the Department for Transport and HS2 Ltd failed to maintain

Found: This cannot be assessed unless the Department for Transport publishes the train-service specification

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Found: The DFT is one. Lord Brennan: Yes, absolutely.

Found: The DFT is one. Lord Brennan: Yes, absolutely.

Found: Forgive me for not knowing, but DfT will have a big interest in making sure that the capacity on those

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 4 August 2026 to Question 18165 on Department for Transport: Carbon Emissions, when the Greening Government Commitments 2025–2030 will be (a) finalised and (b) published.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

This Government has not set a publication date for new Greening Government Commitments. Departments are expected to continue to take action to improve their impact on the environment.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 4 August 2026 to Question 18165 on Department for Transport: Carbon Emissions, when the Greening Government Commitments 2025–2030 will be (a) finalised and (b) published.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

This Government has not set a publication date for new Greening Government Commitments. Departments are expected to continue to take action to improve their impact on the environment.

Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what other government departments are part of DRIVE35.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

DRIVE35 is led by the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) and is delivered in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre and Innovate UK. Launched by our modern Industrial Strategy, DRIVE35 is the biggest government investment in the automotive industry of the post war era. With £4bn in capital and R&D funding to 2035, DRIVE35 will accelerate UK innovation in strategic vehicle technologies, support their commercial scale up, and unlock investment across all aspects of automotive manufacturing and electrification. DRIVE35 forms part of the Government's Industrial Strategy, which is delivered through a whole-of-government approach. As part of its implementation, BIST works closely with a range of departments, including DfT, HM Treasury and DESNZ.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, which organisations have (a) had departmental Civil Servants seconded to HMRC and the Valuation Office since July 2024 and (b) seconded organisational staff to HMRC and the Valuation Office in that period.

Answered by James Murray - Financial Secretary to the Treasury and Paymaster General

Since July 2024, HMRC civil servants have been seconded to the following organisations:
• Gambling Commission
• Office for Environmental Protection
• St Helena Government
• Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA)
• Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)
• Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
• Nesta
• Pubs Code Adjudicator
• TaxAid
• Resolution Foundation
• Bank of England
• London School of Economics
• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
• GCHQ
• University College London (UCL)
• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR)
• St James's Palace
• National Crime Agency (NCA)
• Falkland Islands Government
• Alexander Mann Solutions
• UK Government Investments
• Isle of Man Government
• Arts Council NI
• HMG Gibraltar
• Financial Ombudsman Service

The VOA seconded out civil servants to:
• HM Treasury
• LocatEd (then an arms-length body of the Department for Education).

During the same period, HMRC has received inward secondees from:
• the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
• Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS)
• Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP)
• Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT)
• Metropolitan Police Service (MPS).

The VOA received inward secondees from:
• Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
• Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL)
• Department for Transport (DfT)
• HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
• Home Office (HO)
• Ministry of Justice (MoJ)
• Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
• Food Standards Agency (FSA)
• HM Land Registry
• Ministry of Defence (MOD)
• Legal Aid Agency
• HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS)
• HM Treasury
• LocatED

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the answer of 6 July 2026, to Question 11721, on DFT: Departmental Responsibilities, what requirements departments have to produce internal Strategic Plans and what content should be included within them.

Answered by Mark Ferguson - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Departments are required to produce Strategic Plans under the reforms to the spending control and accountability framework set out at Budget 2025. Central guidance for strategic plans asks departments to set out their outcomes, metrics, risks and strategies for delivering their outcomes using their agreed resources, but grants departments discretion to adapt the approach to their needs - this is essential to ensuring plans are tailored and useful to individual departments rather than serving as a prescriptive paper exercise.

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Found: government departments, such as energy (Department for Energy Security & Net Zero) or transport (Department for Transport

Found: Protection Act 1949 (CPA) in relation to offshore oil and gas operations on behalf of the Department for Transport

Found: Protection Act 1949 (CPA) in relation to offshore oil and gas operations on behalf of the Department for Transport

Found: Protection Act 1949 (CPA) in relation to offshore oil and gas operations on behalf of the Department for Transport

Found: its personnel are reputable and suitably qualified, based on the Guidance issued by the Department for Transport

Found: Command Paper No 1676 Introduction  This explanatory memorandum has been prepared by the Department for Transport

Found: • The S econd Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy [CWIS2] (Department for Transport (DfT), 2021

Found: • Department for Transport. (2003) The Heritage of Historic Resources Sub-Objective TAG Unit 3.3.9

Found: • Department for Transport: Road Traffic Statistics (https://roadtraffic.dft.gov.uk/)16.

Found: • The S econd Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy [CWIS2] (Department for Transport (DfT), 2021

Found: Command Paper No CP 1671 Introduction  This explanatory memorandum has been prepared by the Department for Transport

Found: Command Paper No 1669  Introduction  This explanatory memorandum has been prepared by the Department for Transport

Found: Command Paper No 1670 Introduction  This explanatory memorandum has been prepared by the Department for Transport

Found: • Provide £8.7 million per year over this SR in funding from DfT to CAA to deliver its duties as

Found:   £57 million from the Department for Transport to improve rail connectivity, £190 million from UK Research

Found:   £57 million from the Department for Transport to improve rail connectivity, £190 million from UK Research

Found: XVII, Issue 0 62 DfT (2025): TAG data book (Calculations by Manchester Metropolitan University Transport

Found: see fit. 4Organisations and People DBT Department for Business and Trade DfT Department for Transport

Found: 0.666666666666667 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Dept. for Transport DFT

Found: 0.0 0 0.0 0 0 [X] 0 [X] 0 0 [X] 0 [X] 0 0 [X] 0 [X] 0 0 [X] 0 [X] 0 0 [X] 0 [X] Dept. for Transport DFT

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Found: The Department for Transport estimate leisure time at £7.32 per hour for a person using their time reasons

Found: multiplying the increase in transaction time by the value of leisure time, as estimated using Department for Transport

Found: outline of the role of the Departmental officials and Minister or their advisors in engaging with the DfT

Found: The Department for Transport prompt payment data provides an example of how this can be formatted.

Found: DIT DEFRA DFE DFT HMT 03/08/20 Redacted 1.

Found: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology London Worker (A rating) Skilled Worker Department for Transport

Found: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology London Worker (A rating) Skilled Worker Department for Transport

Found: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology London Worker (A rating) Skilled Worker Department for Transport

Found: Hythe,Shore Road, Hythe SOUTHAMPTON United Kingdom SO45 6ZD Central Government 10002368 Department for Transport

Found: Protection Act 1949 (CPA) in relation to offshore oil and gas operations on behalf of the Department for Transport

Found: Protection Act 1949 (CPA) in relation to offshore oil and gas operations on behalf of the Department for Transport

Found: Protection Act 1949 (CPA) in relation to offshore oil and gas operations on behalf of the Department for Transport

Found: The transfer of passenger services operated under contracts with the Department for Transport (DfT) is

Found: Since joining the civil service he has led policy evaluations at the Department for Transport

Found: Since joining the civil service he has led policy evaluations at the Department for Transport and Home

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Found: We have worked closely with the Department for Transport (DfT) to strengthen governance arrangements

Found: We have worked closely with the Department for Transport (DfT) to strengthen governance arrangements

Found: DVLA is an executive agency of the Department for Transport (DfT) and is responsible for managing the

Found: Before 2025, data for Great Britain overall was published by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Before 2025, data for Great Britain overall was published by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: data for Great Britain Data updated monthly Between January 2022 and November 2024, the Department for Transport

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Before 2025, data for Great Britain overall was published by DfT.

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: Before 2025, data for Great Britain overall was published by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Found: Coverage Great Britain from April 2007 to June 2026 Data source Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver

Found: illegal number plates will target drivers who dodge fines and organised crime gangs as the Department for Transport

Found: described as such and issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (an executive agency of the Department for Transport

Found: Shipping (Safety of Navigation) Regulations 2026 Secondary Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Department for Transport

Found: Annual Report 2025 © HS2 Ltd. gov.uk/hs2 High Speed Two (HS2) Limited has been tasked by the Department for Transport