Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Anna McMorrin and Harpreet Uppal

Wednesday 17th June 2026 Commons Chamber

[Harpreet Uppal (Huddersfield) (Lab)]

7. What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to improve the rail network in Wales.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Anna McMorrin)]

The Prime Ministe has announced a generational funding commitment to Welsh rail and a pipeline of projects worth up to £14 billion. That long-term plan will transform connectivity across Wales. We will deliver that at pace, building on the strong start of the £445 million of investment already secured at the spending review.

[Harpreet Uppal]

It is brilliant to see you wearing your Yorkshire rose, Mr Speaker.

The UK Labour Government are investing in our railways to boost economic growth right across the country. In my constituency, we are seeing continued investment through the trans-Pennine route upgrades in Huddersfield. Will the Minister set out what rail upgrades are coming to Wales, and how they will deliver economic growth and boost employment across the nation?

[Anna McMorrin]

I thank my hon. Friend for her excellent question. We have agreed a £14 billion long-term plan for Welsh rail, with work starting immediately, spanning 43 projects in every corner of Wales and unlocking around 12,000 jobs. New stations and faster and more reliable trains will connect people with communities and jobs right across Wales, benefiting the whole UK.