"I welcome the announcement on the developments on HS2 and the substantial investment in our rail network. However, will the Secretary of State confirm that the existing west coast line will continue to receive the investment that it requires? In particular, will signalling upgrades be more than just like-for-like and …..." John Stevenson - View Speech
"I congratulate the Secretary of State on the speed of the work that he is doing and his approach to this very difficult issue. My concern, however, is the potential loss of investment and innovation in the rail service in the short term. Will the Secretary of State assure me …..." John Stevenson - View Speech
"May I extend my support to the Secretary of State for taking prompt action once he was aware of the problems with the west coast rail franchise? My concern now is about the length of the term of any new franchise, once it is finally in place, as that can …..." John Stevenson - View Speech
"I am delighted to take part in this debate, and I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Stevenage (Stephen McPartland) on securing it. It is an important subject that is relevant to many smaller cities and towns and their railway stations.
"I completely agree with my hon. Friend; he is absolutely right. Just as broadband is vital to the future economy, so is the success of the railway network and its stations. I hope that the Government will ensure that the modernisation of stations is made a priority...." John Stevenson - View Speech
"On that point, does the Minister agree that it is important that we encourage the franchisees to invest their money in the stations, in addition to the taxpayers’ money?..." John Stevenson - View Speech
"Does the Minister agree that local government, too, has a responsibility to promote transport projects, particularly those that will help to promote economic growth?..." John Stevenson - View Speech
"The Secretary of State said that the hybrid Bill could include phase 2. Would it not be sensible, if we have a hybrid Bill before us, to take the route all the way to Glasgow and Edinburgh, which would reassure those of us who live beyond Manchester and Leeds that …..." John Stevenson - View Speech
"The same could apply to the hon. Gentleman’s forecasts. They could be underestimates as well. The economic benefits could be far greater than any of us anticipate...." John Stevenson - View Speech