Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Oral Answers to Questions

John Lamont Excerpts
Wednesday 27th March 2019

(5 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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David Mundell Portrait David Mundell
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I am sure that that line sounded better when the hon. Gentleman practised it in front of the mirror. He clearly misconstrued my response. The House has made very clear that it will not accept a no-deal Brexit, but we are committed to ensuring that we deliver on the referendum result. That means leaving with a deal, and that is why I continue to support the Prime Minister’s deal.

John Lamont Portrait John Lamont (Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk) (Con)
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5. What steps he is taking to deliver the borderlands growth deal.

Mel Stride Portrait The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mel Stride)
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In his spring statement, the Chancellor announced the provision of up to £260 million for the borderlands growth deal, which will take the total investment to £345 million.

John Lamont Portrait John Lamont
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Extending the borders railway to Hawick, Newcastleton and on to Carlisle would bring economic prosperity and jobs to the Scottish borders and the wider borderlands area. Will the Minister join me in asking for some of that £260 million to be spent on a feasibility study?

Mel Stride Portrait Mel Stride
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I can certainly confirm that the Department for Transport will be considering a feasibility study on the extension of the borders railway.