Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord McLoughlin and Sheryll Murray

Thursday 6th February 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

What matters is that HS2 is of fundamental importance not just to Birmingham, but to Manchester and all our other northern cities. It is a very important project that deserves the support of the House, but I understand that people who have the route going through their constituencies have big problems, and I will always meet colleagues to discuss them.

[Sheryll Murray (South East Cornwall) (Con)]

2. What steps he is taking to increase the availability of wi-fi on the UK rail network.

[The Secretary of State for Transport (Mr Patrick McLoughlin)]

I fully recognise the importance of good mobile services for passengers on board trains. We have met the rail industry and secured its agreement to roll out improvements to mobile services across the rail network, starting this year. We expect significant improvements across key routes, starting with comprehensive coverage achieved by 2019. Network Rail and train operators are working jointly to fund and deliver the improvements based on collaborations with mobile network operators.

[Sheryll Murray]

Will my right hon. Friend ensure that my constituents have trains that are running with adequate seating so that people can use the wi-fi?

[Mr McLoughlin]

I will say something in topical questions about the appalling situation faced by Devon and Cornwall MPs as regards the rail service in their areas. I fully accept what my hon. Friend says. I met her and other Members last night to discuss the situation and its effect on their constituencies, and I will be saying a little more later on.