Oral Answers to Questions

Dehenna Davison Excerpts

Wednesday 18th May 2022 Commons Chamber

[Rob Roberts (Delyn) (Ind)]

8. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on improving Union connectivity.

[Dehenna Davison (Bishop Auckland) (Con)]

11. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on improving Union connectivity.

[Mark Jenkinson (Workington) (Con)]

15. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on improving Union connectivity.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Jack]

The Prime Minister has welcomed—indeed, intends to accept—the proposals for the creation of UKNET, a strategic transport network spanning the entire United Kingdom. The funding that the UK Government have set aside will put us on the right path to developing the best infrastructure investment options to strengthen our main transport arteries for people and businesses across the United Kingdom.

[Dehenna Davison]

The A68 is one of the main arteries for traffic crossing the border of England and Scotland, carrying thousands of vehicles each way every day. Many pass through the small village of Toft Hill in my constituency. In 2021, the Government finally announced that they would be providing funding to finally complete the much-awaited Toft Hill bypass—[Interruption]—improving the safety of roads for all users, including those travelling into England from Scotland. Does the Secretary of State agree that that demonstrates the Government’s commitment to bringing the nations of our UK together by ensuring that the infrastructure works not only for both nations, but for local communities?

[Mr Jack]

I notice that my hon. Friend was being rudely interrupted, but what I think I picked up was that the A68 from Darlington to Midlothian is of great importance to cross-border transport connectivity between England and Scotland. I extend my congratulations to Durham County Council for its success in the levelling-up fund. The rerouting of the A68 at Toft Hill will create a new 1.6 km bypass away from the village centre, which I know my hon. Friend has been campaigning tirelessly for.