Debates between Jamie Stone and Nusrat Ghani during the 2017-2019 Parliament

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jamie Stone and Nusrat Ghani
Thursday 19th April 2018

(6 years, 8 months ago)

Commons Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Nusrat Ghani Portrait Ms Ghani
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

We have no reason to expect increases in journey times between Glasgow and Manchester as a result of HS2.

Jamie Stone Portrait Jamie Stone (Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross) (LD)
- Hansard - -

18. What steps his Department is taking to support the provision of sleeper rail services between Scotland and England.

Nusrat Ghani Portrait The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Ms Nusrat Ghani)
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

In his autumn statement of 2011, the Chancellor announced a commitment to contribute £50 million towards the cost of improving and upgrading the Caledonian sleeper service, including rolling stock and infrastructure improvements. We understand that new rolling stock will start to be introduced in the autumn. Under the devolved arrangements relating to the railways in Scotland, the Caledonian sleeper service is the responsibility of the Scottish Government and operates under a franchise procured by Scottish Ministers.

Jamie Stone Portrait Jamie Stone
- Hansard - -

The northern sleeper service is good for the environment, stress-free, fun and actually rather romantic. Does the Minister agree that further development would do much to boost tourism in the highlands and in my constituency?

Nusrat Ghani Portrait Ms Ghani
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

We do like romance, and the new trains will offer improved facilities, comfort, hospitality and security for passengers. Passengers’ experience will be enhanced, supported by improved ticketing, booking channels and information, station improvements and support for post-travel arrangements. Staying on the theme of romance, I know that the hon. Gentleman has a particular interest in disability and access, for which these trains will be suitable, as he has a close family member with disability issues.