Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Transport

Oral Answers to Questions

Jim Cunningham Excerpts
Thursday 22nd July 2010

(14 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Theresa Villiers Portrait Mrs Villiers
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I recall the discussions that we had on this issue when I visited my hon. Friend’s constituency. I believe that the issue is a prime example of how the reforms that we are proposing could yield significant benefits for passengers. They will give the opportunity for private sector investment in stations such as Great Yarmouth’s. At the moment the franchise is of about seven years, and that simply does not give the certainty needed for private sector investment to pay for itself during the franchise. With longer franchises, we can expect more station improvements of the sort that my hon. Friend wants.

Jim Cunningham Portrait Mr Jim Cunningham (Coventry South) (Lab)
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Will the Minister agree to meet a small delegation led by me and my hon. Friend the Member for Coventry North West (Mr Robinson) to discuss the Nuckle project in Coventry? The situation has been going on for a number of years and it needs resolving one way or another.

Theresa Villiers Portrait Mrs Villiers
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Yes, I shall be happy to meet that delegation.