Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Conor McGinn and Lord McLoughlin

Thursday 11th June 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr McLoughlin]

In 13 years, there was no devolution of rail services. We have done more to devolve rail services in five years than the last Government even considered possible, and I am very proud of that.

[Conor McGinn (St Helens North) (Lab)]

12. What recent assessment he has made of progress in implementing Network Rail’s investment programme.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Secretary of State for Transport (Mr Patrick McLoughlin)]

As the independent regulator for the railways, the Office of Rail and Road is responsible for overseeing and enforcing Network Rail’s obligations. The ORR reports twice a year on performance in “Network Rail Monitor”. The last report noted that there had been relatively successful delivery during control period 4, but that the expected progress had not been made in the early stages of the enhancement projects in control period 5. The Department is working with the ORR and Network Rail to ensure that the vital passenger benefits are delivered.

[Conor McGinn]

The latest figures show that the cost of rail season tickets held by commuters from Garswood, Rainford, Earlestown and Newton has risen by up to 25% since 2010. Can the Secretary of State explain to my constituents why the Government are allowing blatant profiteering that is ripping off passengers?

[Mr McLoughlin]

I am very pleased that in the last two years we have capped rail fares at RPI, and we have also promised to cap rail fares for the next five years at RPI, and that is what we will do.