Rail Investment
Debate between Albert Owen and Gavin Shuker(13 years, 9 months ago)
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Albert Owen (in the Chair)
Order. Before I call Gavin Shuker, I will just explain that I will call the Front Benchers at about 5.15 pm, as we have an extra 15 minutes from the Division. Four Members are trying to catch my eye, so if the next speakers can consider a time limit of 10 minutes, we will get in everyone who wants to participate in the debate.
Gavin Shuker
Thank you, Mr Owen.
As I was saying before we were so rudely interrupted by the business in the main Chamber, the Select Committee report concludes:
“Investment in improving transport infrastructure should be based on the long-term needs of the economy and society, not directed by the need for immediate public expenditure savings.”
In fact, the report spoke highly of the benefits of investing in our railways, recognising that enhancements often
“provide good value-for-money”—
what we put in regularly, we get back in increased usage. Targeted investment can have “important economic benefits” for community connection and regeneration, which means that not only the service provider, but our local businesses and communities cash in. The Government desperately need growth, and they must not ignore the potential for economic growth in the improvement of our railways.