Oral Answers to Questions

Fleur Anderson Excerpts

Thursday 2nd July 2020 Commons Chamber

[Andrew Stephenson]

That would indeed be a great honour. Before a final decision can be taken, we need to review a business case from LNER. Sadly, some of the surveys have been delayed because of coronavirus, but they will be taking place later this summer. I am happy to commit to writing to my right hon. Friend setting out the schedule for that work, and to keeping him and his colleagues updated.

[Fleur Anderson (Putney) (Lab)]

What support the Government are providing to local authorities to promote active travel.

[Simon Fell (Barrow and Furness) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to increase levels of cycling and walking.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Secretary of State for Transport (Grant Shapps)]

The Government have provided £250 million of funding to local authorities this financial year to increase levels of active transport.

[Fleur Anderson]

Will the Secretary of State join me in congratulating teachers, parents and volunteers who are opening school streets such as that for Albermarle Primary School in Putney, which are making streets cleaner, safer, greener and more cycle-friendly? On cycling, when will the Government publish their updated cycle infrastructure guidance for local authorities and the much promised cycling and walking plan or investment strategy, and will it be before recess?

[Grant Shapps]

I congratulate the initiative on the roads, which is fantastic. My hon. Friend will know that I have announced £2 billion, and nearly £50 million of that has been made available to local authorities straightaway. I can also inform the House that a further tranche of money will be made available over the summer as well, along with the plans that she refers to.