Oral Answers to Questions

Jason McCartney Excerpts

Thursday 24th June 2021 Commons Chamber

[Rachel Maclean]

As the hon. Gentleman will know, we fully recognise and support the importance of the aviation industry to our country. That is why this Government have stood behind the sector and provided up to £7 billion, in the round, of support for jobs through the furlough scheme and support for airports and the airline industry. It is vital that we get the travel industry back on its feet, which is why we are taking a public health approach to restarting travel. The Transport Secretary will say more on that this evening.

[Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve transport connections in the north of England.

[Miriam Cates (Penistone and Stocksbridge) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve transport connections in the north of England.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Minister of State, Department for Transport (Andrew Stephenson)]

Building on the £29 billion invested in northern transport since 2010, this Government are delivering improved connectivity to level up the north.

[Jason McCartney [V]]

Does the Minister agree that we need a fully integrated transport network across the north, with smart ticketing? It is not a question of either/or; we need regular affordable bus services as well as the HS2 eastern leg, as well as Northern Powerhouse Rail, as well as electrification of TransPennine rail and as well as, finally, upgrades to the Huddersfield-Penistone-Sheffield line.

[Andrew Stephenson]

I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend. Better transport is central to the Government’s agenda to level up the north. The TransPennine route upgrade is already under way, our national bus strategy is being delivered and we will soon publish our integrated rail plan for the midlands and the north, ensuring that transformational rail improvements are delivered as quickly as possible.