Rail Fares

Debate between Maria Eagle and Barry Sheerman

Wednesday 5th September 2012 Commons Chamber

[Maria Eagle]

I agree that there is a strong case for having a public sector comparator, at least when looking at franchising. That is how the current system operates.

[Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)]

Will my hon. Friend take it from me, as a Yorkshire Member, that these are extremely important issues? I am pleased that we have a Yorkshire MP as the new Transport Secretary—that is some consolation—but the east coast and west coast lines are vital to economic regeneration in Yorkshire and the north west. If we do not get it right, we will starve UK businesses in the regions.

[Maria Eagle]

My hon. Friend makes a strong point, even if his definition of Yorkshire is larger than everybody else’s. As somebody who was born in Bridlington, however, I understand that Yorkshire can be larger than one might think from looking at a map.