Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Transport

Oral Answers to Questions

Christopher Chope Excerpts
Thursday 21st March 2024

(1 month, 1 week ago)

Commons Chamber
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Huw Merriman Portrait Huw Merriman
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The point I was making is that if the operator changes, the contracts between operator and the unions will remain unless the unions are willing to release. There cannot be a unilateral change. The courts would not allow it. As I say, that was put in place in 1997. It was supposed to end in 2002, but continued. It is now, effectively, a part of a term and condition. A change of operator will not make any difference to that. I do listen to those in the north and I am delighted that I will be listening to the leader of ASLEF, because he has agreed to sit down with me so we can discuss those terms. I hope I can work with all Members of the House to make that happen.

Christopher Chope Portrait Sir Christopher Chope (Christchurch) (Con)
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My Highways Act 1980 (Amendment) Bill, which is due to have its Second Reading tomorrow, would make it easier for motorists to make claims against local authorities for damage caused to their cars by neglect of road maintenance and by potholes. Why are the Government not supporting my Bill?

Guy Opperman Portrait Guy Opperman
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I shall be the duty Minister tomorrow, and I look forward to dealing with this matter.