Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Johnson of Marylebone and Luke Pollard

Thursday 18th January 2018 Commons Chamber

[Joseph Johnson]

The Devon Metro proposals for enhanced rail services in the Exeter area include aspirations for additional local services between Axminster and Exeter. This is being progressed as a local scheme by Devon County Council, and we will continue to provide assistance as it develops its proposals.

[Luke Pollard (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) (Lab/Co-op)]

I welcome the Minister to his new position. The new Minister will be aware that the Government missed the Christmas deadline for funding the three-minute speed reduction between Plymouth and Exeter. At just £600,000, why did the Government knock back the south-west?

[Joseph Johnson]

I can assure that hon. Gentleman that that is not the case. We are continuing to look closely at the issue, and we are working on it in the Department and with Network Rail.