Rail Fares

Barry Sheerman Excerpts

Wednesday 5th September 2012 Commons Chamber

[Maria Eagle]

I agree that there is a strong case for having a public sector comparator, at least when looking at franchising. That is how the current system operates.

[Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)]

Will my hon. Friend take it from me, as a Yorkshire Member, that these are extremely important issues? I am pleased that we have a Yorkshire MP as the new Transport Secretary—that is some consolation—but the east coast and west coast lines are vital to economic regeneration in Yorkshire and the north west. If we do not get it right, we will starve UK businesses in the regions.

[Maria Eagle]

My hon. Friend makes a strong point, even if his definition of Yorkshire is larger than everybody else’s. As somebody who was born in Bridlington, however, I understand that Yorkshire can be larger than one might think from looking at a map.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr McLoughlin]

I should be delighted to meet my hon. Friend and the colleagues whom she wishes to bring to see me. As I have said, a huge number of people rely on commuting, particularly in areas such as Kent, and that is very expensive for them. I shall be more than happy to arrange a meeting in the not-too-distant future.

[Mr Sheerman]

Will the Secretary of State give way?

[Mr McLoughlin]

I am slightly conscious of the time.

[Mr Sheerman]

May I just apologise quickly?

[Mr McLoughlin]

There is a first time for everything. In fact, I think the hon. Gentleman has already apologised, but perhaps he now wants to say something else.

[Mr Sheerman]

I wanted to apologise for suggesting earlier that the Secretary of State was a Yorkshireman, but may I also make a serious point? People in my constituency of Huddersfield, and in west Yorkshire generally, are finding it increasingly difficult to afford the fares for journeys to this city, where much of their business lies.

[Mr McLoughlin]

I am sorry. I missed the point that the hon. Gentleman was making.

[Mr Sheerman]

Business people in Yorkshire have to come here to do business, but the rate at which the fares are increasing is making it very difficult for them to afford to do so.