Midland Main Line Electrification

Debate between Baroness Morgan of Cotes and Clive Betts

Monday 7th November 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Clive Betts (Sheffield South East) (Lab)]

May I draw attention to the point that the right hon. Lady made about some trains being 40 years old? The HST trains will have to be replaced in 2020 because they are no longer compliant with disability legislation. If electrification does not get the go-ahead as per the current programme, there will not be a case in 2020 for replacing the old rolling stock with electric-compatible rolling stock. The whole programme could be delayed, effectively for ever.

[Nicky Morgan]

The hon. Gentleman makes a good point. It is important that the Government make a commitment now because of the need to procure new rolling stock.