Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Alan Whitehead and Lord McLoughlin

Thursday 10th March 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

I am more than happy to ensure that the Scottish Government are consulted if it is decided to take any further measures. The matter is taken seriously in all parts of the House and I welcome the points that the hon. Lady makes.

[Dr Alan Whitehead (Southampton, Test) (Lab)]

10. What his policy is on privatisation of Network Rail.

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

I have no plans.

[Dr Whitehead]

The Secretary of State will be aware that the Treasury-backed Shaw report, the final version of which is due to be published next week and which looks at the future financing of railways, has made it clear that full privatisation of Network Rail is on the table. I am sure the Minister would agree that we do not want to go back to the dark and chaotic days of the private management of our rail system under Railtrack. Beyond having no plans, will he commit himself today to rejecting any recommendations that lead to the privatisation of Network Rail?

[Mr McLoughlin]

I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on seeing a report which I do not think has been published yet. How he knows what the contents are is beyond me. I am very proud of what we have achieved with the railway industry. It has been a fantastic success, with the franchising that takes place. I am sorry that that is being put at risk, not by the Government, but by the Opposition.