Oral Answers to Questions

Andy Carter Excerpts

Thursday 3rd December 2020 Commons Chamber

[Sara Britcliffe (Hyndburn) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve rail connections in the north of England.

[Andy Carter (Warrington South) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve rail connections in the north of England.

[The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Andrew Stephenson)]

Last week was the dawn of a new era for transport in the north of England. Loved by some, but hated by most, it was the end of the line for the much-hated Pacer trains—the final call as this rusty and knackered rolling stock is consigned to history, allowing passengers to enjoy a brand-new fleet of trains, creating a more reliable network across the north.

--- Later in debate ---

[Andrew Stephenson]

Indeed. I thank my hon. Friend for her continued and tireless campaigning on this matter. Given that my constituency of Pendle will, as you have identified, Mr Speaker, be one of those that most benefit from the reopening of the Colne-Skipton line, I will recuse myself from commenting directly on the scheme, but I know she has met my hon. Friend the rail Minister, who continues to consider the proposals carefully.

[Andy Carter]

Transport for the North has recently made recommendations to the Government to include Warrington on a new high-speed rail line between Manchester and Liverpool. Will my hon. Friend confirm that any route decisions will include an interchange at Warrington Bank Quay station, creating a hub site between Northern Powerhouse Rail and the west coast main line?

[Andrew Stephenson]

We are currently considering the formal advice from Transport for the North on its preferred way to proceed with Northern Powerhouse Rail following the board meeting last week, and we will respond shortly. We are also awaiting advice from the National Infrastructure Commission on rail investment across the north of England.