Business of the House

Debate between Darren Paffey and Alan Campbell

Thursday 8th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I absolutely agree that concessionary travel is invaluable for many people, particularly the most vulnerable. We are beginning to see across the country what it means to have Reform in office. This Government understand how important accessible transport is and we are prioritising keeping costs down. Transport oral questions took place this morning, but I will ensure that my hon. Friend’s concerns are drawn to the attention of the Department for Transport.

[Darren Paffey (Southampton Itchen) (Lab)]

At a recent constituency coffee morning that I hosted on the subject of public transport, some disabled passengers told me about the specific barriers they still face when they choose to travel by rail. Woolston station has step-free access to only one of its platforms, so those with limited mobility have to make a 20-minute round trip in the other direction in order to then travel eastward. That is, as I am sure the Leader of the House would agree, ridiculous. As we roll out Great British Railways, will he make time for a debate on how we might make all our stations accessible to all constituents and travellers, including those who live with disabilities?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The Government are committed to improving the accessibility of British railways. We have confirmed £280 million for Access for All projects over four years. There have been a number of recent debates relating to the accessibility of our railways, but I think further such debates—perhaps Backbench Business or Adjournment debates—would be of great interest to Members across the House.

Business of the House

Debate between Darren Paffey and Alan Campbell

Thursday 30th October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I congratulate the Royal & Derngate theatre on being named the UK’s most welcoming theatre. Local theatres are an important part of the UK’s creative industry and play a vital role in our local communities. I thank everyone involved with the theatre concerned.

[Darren Paffey (Southampton Itchen) (Lab)]

My constituent Clive has a rare and incurable neuroendocrine cancer. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has recommended that selective internal radiation therapy could be used for people with his condition and would improve both life quality and expectancy, but that still is not happening. Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on what more is needed for the NHS to finally fund and implement this cost-effective and proven treatment?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I am sorry to hear of the concern of my hon. Friend’s constituent. The Government recognise the need to offer patients the most suitable treatment, but my hon. Friend will know that radiotherapy treatment for cancer is highly individualised, and decisions are made, quite rightly, by clinicians. I am sure that Ministers will have heard his concerns. Some of the concerns that he has raised will be shared by Members across the House, and he may wish therefore to raise them in a debate.