Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord McLoughlin and Chris Williamson

Thursday 17th January 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

I think I have been very open with the House, and I have also commissioned inquiries. Initially the hon. Lady questioned their independence. I am glad that she is now happy to abide by those reports, which were clear that, had Ministers been warned, different actions could have been taken, which is exactly what the permanent secretary said before the Select Committee on Transport.

[Chris Williamson (Derby North) (Lab)]

4. What recent progress he has made on the Thameslink and Crossrail rolling stock contracts; and if he will make a statement.

West Coast Rail Franchise

Debate between Lord McLoughlin and Chris Williamson

Thursday 6th December 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

My hon. Friend says that Parliament holds Ministers to account. In fact, it is not only Parliament that holds Ministers to account, because that also happens through the Select Committee procedures, on which I will certainly not lecture my hon. Friend, and that applies to permanent secretaries and officials as well. There will undoubtedly be other reports not only by the Transport Committee but by other Select Committees and by the National Audit Office. Various reports will come out on this subject.

[Chris Williamson (Derby North) (Lab)]

Will the Secretary of State agree to meet staff representatives through their trade union to discuss and consider the ongoing uncertainties and concerns about this contract?

[Mr McLoughlin]

I am always happy to meet various bodies, and if the hon. Gentleman puts a proposal to me I will certainly consider it.