Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Chris Clarkson and Andrew Stephenson

Thursday 12th March 2020 Commons Chamber

[Chris Clarkson (Heywood and Middleton) (Con)]

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

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

We are working with Network Rail, operators and stakeholders to raise performance, and we are investing billions of pounds to improve services for passengers.

[Chris Clarkson]

I thank the Minister for that answer. Does he agree with me that, in addition to national rail projects, light rail projects such as extending the Metrolink to Middleton and Heywood in my constituency form a vital part of levelling up and increasing capacity?

[Andrew Stephenson]

Under this Government, the Metrolink has been extended to reach new destinations right across Greater Manchester. The most recent extension to the Trafford centre is due to open later this month. While the development of light rail proposals is a matter for the Mayoral combined authority, we will work closely with them. I hope to see the Metrolink extended to my hon. Friend’s constituency. As the Chancellor said yesterday, we are getting investment done.